The main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), has formally raised concerns with President Brigadier (Rtd) Dr. Julius Maada Bio about recent government actions that they argued undermine the National Unity Agreement of October 18, 2023. In a letter dated May 2024, the APC leadership pointed out two main issues: the reappointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha as the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) Commissioner for the Southern Region, and the government’s ongoing constitutional review process.
The APC claims these actions violate the spirit of the National Unity Agreement and threaten the work of the Cross-Party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review (Tripartite Committee). They stressed that the constitutional review should involve active participation from political parties, stakeholders, and the general public, accusing the government of unilaterally amending the 1991 National Constitution without such involvement. The letter cited the October 2023 National Dialogue, which led to the National Unity Agreement. During this dialogue, it was agreed that any constitutional review would be paused until the Tripartite Committee’s report, commissioned on November 21, 2023, was completed. The APC expressed disappointment that their representatives on the Tripartite Committee could not convince government counterparts to stop the review process.
Additionally, the APC criticized the reappointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha, stating it was done without the necessary consultations with registered political parties, including the APC, as required by Section 32 of the 1991 Constitution. The APC argues the lack of consultation breaches constitutional provisions and demonstrates the government’s disregard for legal norms. The APC has requested a meeting with President Bio to discuss these issues and other relevant concerns. They emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in Sierra Leone and indicated they are considering appropriate legal actions if these matters are not addressed.
The APC concluded the letter by expressing hope for a positive response and reaffirming their commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.
