By Ibrahim Sesay

The Chairman and Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, has reaffirmed that the power to determine the outcome of presidential elections rests solely with the electorate, not the Commission, as the institution unveils a comprehensive five-year strategic plan ahead of the 2028 general elections.

Speaking during his inaugural Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) meeting held at the Commission’s headquarters in Tower Hill on April 29, Alpha emphasized that the role of the Commission is strictly to organize, supervise, and ensure the credibility of elections, while the final decision remains with the people.

“The Chairman of ECSL does not determine the winner of presidential elections, nor does the Commission manufacture electoral outcomes. It is the people of Sierra Leone, through their votes, who decide who governs them,” Alpha stated.

His remarks come amid growing public discourse surrounding electoral transparency and institutional independence, as the country gradually shifts focus toward preparations for the next electoral cycle.

At the same engagement, the Commission announced a new five-year strategic plan designed to guide electoral activities leading up to 2028 and beyond. According to Alpha, the plan will undergo an extensive validation process involving all registered political parties at both regional and national levels to ensure inclusivity and stakeholder ownership.

“Your input will be seriously and highly encouraged,” he assured, noting that the document will only be finalized after broad consultations.

The PPLC meeting also reviewed key operational priorities, including a nationwide assessment of voter registration centres to evaluate their accessibility and adequacy, as well as ongoing institutional restructuring recommended by international partners, including the International Moral Guarantors.

Alpha used the opportunity to dismiss widespread claims circulating on social media regarding alleged mass recruitment by the Commission. He categorically denied reports suggesting that the ECSL had opened a recruitment portal or planned to hire 256 staff.

“At no given time have we come up with any portal to state that we have vacancies. It is not true. When the time comes, we will keep the public fully informed,” he clarified, urging citizens and the media to disregard what he described as false information.

Instead, the ECSL Chairman outlined a reform agenda focused on strengthening institutional capacity and improving electoral systems. He disclosed that the restructuring process is already underway in collaboration with key government institutions, including the Human Resource Management Office and the Public Sector Reform Unit, and will be conducted in a transparent and merit-based manner.

The Commission is also working with the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to advance legal reforms aimed at enhancing the electoral framework. In addition, efforts are ongoing to procure modern voter registration equipment and software to improve efficiency and credibility in future elections.

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s democratic progress, Alpha noted that since the 2005 institutional reforms, the country has successfully conducted four electoral cycles—in 2007, 2012, 2018, and 2023—thereby sustaining constitutional governance and democratic continuity.

He, however, cautioned that these gains must be protected through collective responsibility, particularly as preparations intensify for the 2028 elections.

“Electoral preparedness requires early planning, timely reforms, adequate financing, institutional cooperation, and sustained stakeholder engagement. ECSL cannot achieve these objectives alone,” he said, calling on political parties, civil society, the media, and the security sector to play their respective roles responsibly.

Also addressing the meeting, Eastern Region Commissioner and PPLC Chairman, Alex Saffa, reassured stakeholders of the Commission’s commitment to delivering credible elections.

“We want to assure you that from 2028, elections will be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner,” Saffa said.

However, he raised concerns about inconsistent representation at PPLC meetings, urging political parties and institutions to delegate decision-makers who can uphold agreements reached during discussions.

“Most times we come here, we have discussions, we make agreements, but after the boardroom, something else comes up,” he noted, warning that such inconsistencies could fuel misunderstanding and misinformation.

The PPLC continues to serve as a critical platform for dialogue, consultation, and information sharing between the Commission and political parties, especially at a time when preparations for the 2028 general elections are gathering momentum.

Several political parties attended the meeting, including the Sierra Leone People’s Party, while the All People’s Congress was notably absent.

As Sierra Leone moves closer to another electoral cycle, the ECSL’s renewed emphasis on transparency, inclusivity, and institutional reform signals a broader effort to strengthen public confidence in the country’s democratic processes. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ecsl-chairman-declares-election-winners-are-decided-by-the-people-not-the-commission/

BEIJING, April 28, 2026 — China has announced a sweeping expansion of its zero-tariff policy to cover all African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with it, in a move aimed at deepening trade ties and boosting economic cooperation across the continent.

Chinese authorities confirmed on Tuesday that the policy will take effect on May 1, 2026, marking a significant shift in Beijing’s trade engagement with Africa. The decision brings an additional 20 African nations under the zero-tariff framework, reflecting what officials described as a strong commitment to high-standard economic opening and mutually beneficial partnerships.

According to a statement issued by the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council, the zero-tariff treatment will apply to 20 African countries that are not classified as least developed countries but have established diplomatic ties with China. The policy will run for a two-year period, from May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2028.

Under the arrangement, qualifying goods will benefit from a preferential tariff rate of zero. However, authorities clarified that products subject to tariff quotas will only enjoy zero tariffs within the quota limits, while standard rates will continue to apply to out-of-quota volumes.

The latest expansion builds on China’s earlier initiative introduced in December 2024, which granted zero-tariff access on 100 percent of tariff lines to 33 least developed African countries with diplomatic relations with Beijing. With the inclusion of the additional 20 countries, the policy will now cover a total of 53 African nations.

Officials say the move is expected to significantly strengthen China-Africa trade relations, enhance investment flows, and support Africa’s broader development agenda. It also aligns with ongoing efforts to establish the China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development agreement, which is currently under negotiation with several African countries.

China’s Ministry of Commerce described the policy as a “significant measure” that positions China as the first major global economy to offer unilateral, full-coverage zero-tariff treatment to all African countries with diplomatic ties. The ministry noted that the initiative represents an innovative and phased approach toward building a more structured and sustainable trade framework between China and Africa.

At a time when global trade faces increasing pressures from protectionist tendencies, Chinese officials emphasized that the zero-tariff expansion is designed to open wider access to its domestic market, thereby creating new opportunities for African exporters. The policy is also intended to provide long-term, stable and predictable conditions for trade and investment cooperation.

Authorities further indicated that the initiative forms part of China’s broader strategy to deepen economic engagement with developing regions while advancing its own high-level opening-up agenda.

The implementation of the zero-tariff regime is expected to inject fresh momentum into bilateral trade, facilitate greater market access for African products, and strengthen supply chain integration between China and African economies.

The announcement also aligns with the country’s long-term economic blueprint outlined in its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), which prioritizes institutional openness, improved trade quality, and a transparent investment environment.

As China moves to widen its economic partnerships across Africa, analysts say the expanded zero-tariff policy could play a pivotal role in reshaping trade dynamics, offering African countries increased access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets while reinforcing Beijing’s strategic economic presence on the continent.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/china-extends-zero-tariff-policy-to-all-african-countries-with-diplomatic-ties/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Investment Board, has entered into a strategic partnership with media entrepreneur and marketing strategist, Vickie Remoe, to host the Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference 2026, in a significant effort to attract diaspora capital and expertise for national development.

The initiative has received support from the Office of the Vice President, led by Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, alongside the Executive Director of the National Investment Board, Dr. Hinga Sandy.

According to Vickie Remoe, the partnership represents a major milestone in strengthening connections between Sierra Leone and its global citizens. She emphasized that the collaboration is designed to create structured and practical pathways for channeling diaspora financial and intellectual resources into the country’s development priorities.

“As Founder and Chair of the Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference, I am deeply grateful for this collaboration, which will enhance our efforts to create clear, actionable pathways to channel the financial and intellectual capital of our global citizens directly into national development,” she stated.

The Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference 2026 is expected to serve as a high-level platform, bringing together diaspora entrepreneurs, institutional investors, development partners and G overnment representatives to explore investment opportunities and policy reforms.

Scheduled to take place over two days in London, the conference will focus on mobilizing capital, fostering partnerships and showcasing investment-ready sectors of the economy. Organizers have confirmed that registration is now open, with interested participants encouraged to sign up through the official platform, MakeSierraLeoneFamous.com.

Stakeholders believe the conference will play a pivotal role in advancing Sierra Leone’s economic transformation agenda by strengthening diaspora engagement and facilitating impactful investment deals, with London set to host key discussions aimed at unlocking new opportunities for growth. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/government-partners-with-vickie-remoe-to-host-sierra-leone-diaspora-investment-conference-2026/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, has called for deliberate structural reforms and strengthened support systems to enhance women’s participation in leadership, particularly within the aviation sector.

She made the statement while addressing delegates at the African Women Leadership Conference 2026, held from April 20 to 21 at the Miatta Conference Centre. The conference, themed: “Redefining Leadership: Women Shaping Africa’s Future,” brought together women leaders and stakeholders to discuss inclusive leadership and national development.

In her remarks, Madam Musayeroh Barrie highlighted the persistent gender imbalance within the aviation industry, noting that critical roles such as piloting, engineering and air traffic control remain largely male-dominated. She emphasized that the disparity is not due to a lack of competence among women, but rather a combination of structural barriers, societal expectations and the demanding nature of the profession.

She described her participation at the conference as an opportunity to amplify the need for systemic change, stressing that breaking barriers requires resilience, courage and purposeful leadership. She also acknowledged the role of Government in promoting inclusion, commending President Julius Maada Bio for policies aimed at increasing women’s representation in leadership.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie cited her own career trajectory as an example of what is possible through determination and opportunity. She noted that she is the first female Director General in Sierra Leone’s civil aviation history, the first in West Africa and among a limited number of women globally to hold such a position.

Despite those achievements, she cautioned against viewing individual milestones as sufficient progress. She stressed that many capable women remain underrepresented due to limited access to mentorship, encouragement and institutional support, calling for more inclusive policies to address those gaps.

Reflecting on her early career, Madam Musayeroh Barrie recounted returning to Sierra Leone in 2010 at the age of 23, where she faced challenges integrating into a system without established networks. She began her career in 2013 as an office assistant despite holding a university degree, later advancing into business development and operations roles. By 2017, she had risen to the position of Country Director, eventually leading to her appointment as Director General.

She emphasized the importance of professionalism, consistency and preparedness, noting that opportunities often arise unexpectedly and must be met with readiness.

On the issue of work-life balance, Madam Musayeroh Barrie underscored the importance of time management and strong support systems, encouraging women to seek assistance where necessary in order to effectively navigate both professional and personal responsibilities.

She also addressed societal attitudes toward women, challenging norms that justify disrespect based on appearance or gender stereotypes. She maintained that responsibility for fostering respectful and inclusive environments lies with all stakeholders, particularly men in leadership positions.

Concluding her address, Madam Musayeroh Barrie highlighted perseverance as a key driver of success, noting that women in leadership often face significant challenges but must remain resilient in pursuit of their goals.

Her remarks reinforced the conference’s central message that advancing women’s leadership in Africa requires intentional reforms, cultural change and sustained investment in empowerment across all sectors. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-calls-for-structural-reforms-to-boost-womens-leadership/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The All Peoples Congress (APC) has issued a strong Independence Day statement calling for democratic accountability, full implementation of electoral reforms and urgent action to address the rising economic hardships facing Sierra Leoneans.

In a message released on April 27, 2026 and signed by its National Secretary General, Lansana Dumbuya Esq., the party reflected on the significance of Sierra Leone’s independence, describing it as a hard-earned achievement built on sacrifice, courage and a collective belief in self-determination.

Addressing citizens, the APC emphasized that independence represents more than the end of colonial rule, but a continuing commitment to democratic governance, justice and accountability. The party noted that Sierra Leone has, over the years, demonstrated resilience through peaceful political transitions since the restoration of multi-party democracy in 1996, a milestone it said strengthened the nation’s democratic credentials.

However, the APC expressed concern over what it described as a “serious departure” from democratic norms during the 2023 elections, citing irregularities and a breakdown of public trust. According to the party, those developments placed the country at a critical juncture, prompting it to engage in dialogue rather than escalate tensions.

The statement highlighted the APC’s participation in negotiations that led to the Agreement for National Unity, including engagements held at Bintumani Hotel in Freetown. The party described the agreement as a “rescue mission” aimed at restoring democratic order and creating a pathway for reforms.

Central to those reforms is the Tripartite Committee, which produced over 80 recommendations intended to address shortcomings in the electoral process and safeguard future elections. The APC acknowledged the role of international partners, including ECOWAS, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel and the Commonwealth Secretariat, collectively referred to as International Moral Guarantors, in facilitating dialogue between political stakeholders.

Despite those efforts, the party expressed concern over delays and what it described as a lack of full compliance with agreed positions. It warned that contradictory statements from some Government officials risk undermining the progress achieved and eroding public confidence.

“Compliance is now the test of leadership,” the APC stated, urging the Government to fully implement both the Tripartite Committee recommendations and the outcomes of the recent dialogue process.

Beyond governance issues, the APC raised alarm over worsening economic conditions, noting sharp increases in the cost of living since 2018. The statement cited significant rises in fuel prices, transportation costs and essential commodities such as rice and cooking oil, while wages have largely remained stagnant. The party argued that those conditions fall short of the aspirations of Sierra Leone’s founding generation.

The APC also voiced reservations about the proposed National Security Bill, cautioning that while national security is important, it should not come at the expense of fundamental freedoms. The party called for broad national consultations before the bill is enacted, warning against any measures that could restrict democratic space or suppress dissent.

In its closing remarks, the APC urged its supporters and the wider public to remain calm, vigilant and actively engaged in safeguarding democracy. It reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful political engagement while signaling readiness to take further action if agreed reforms are not implemented.

“As we celebrate Independence Day, let us remember that independence is not a ceremony; it is a continuous responsibility,” the statement concluded, reiterating the party’s pledge to defend democracy and uphold the will of the people. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/apc-calls-for-accountability-warns-against-democratic-backsliding-in-sierra-leone/

India is set to host the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-IV) on May 31, 2026, in New Delhi, in collaboration with the African Union Commission. The high-level summit will bring together African heads of state, senior Government officials and representatives from regional organizations in a renewed effort to strengthen the long-standing partnership between India and the African continent.

The summit is expected to serve as a strategic platform for dialogue, cooperation and policy alignment, with a strong focus on advancing mutually beneficial partnerships across a wide range of sectors. It will also outline a forward-looking roadmap aimed at deepening engagement and expanding collaboration between the two regions.

India’s External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, officially unveiled the summit’s logo, theme and website on April 23, 2026, in New Delhi. The summit will be held under the theme: “IA SPIRIT: India-Africa Strategic Partnership for Innovation, Resilience and Inclusive Transformation,” reflecting the evolving and comprehensive nature of India-Africa relations.

Ahead of the main summit, a series of preparatory engagements have been scheduled to fine-tune key policy discussions. These include a Senior Officials Meeting on May 28, followed by the India-Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on May 29. These sessions are expected to deliberate on priority areas such as trade, infrastructure, energy, healthcare and digital transformation.

The India-Africa Forum Summit, first launched in 2008, has grown into a cornerstone of high-level political engagement between India and African nations. It is guided by principles of mutual respect, equality, solidarity and shared prosperity. Previous editions have led to significant expansion in India’s development assistance and capacity-building programmes across Africa, reinforcing the depth of the partnership.

The upcoming summit is widely seen as a landmark engagement that will further consolidate diplomatic and economic ties under the South-South cooperation framework. It will also provide an opportunity to showcase governance models and inclusive development initiatives implemented over the past decade in both regions.

Running alongside the summit will be the India–Africa Business Dialogue and Exhibition, scheduled from May 29 to 31, 2026, at the iconic Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event is being organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry in partnership with India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The business forum is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening economic ties by bringing together Ministers, policymakers, investors and private sector leaders from both regions. It will focus on unlocking opportunities across key sectors, including agriculture and food processing, infrastructure, energy, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, digital technologies, financial services and skills development.

Featuring plenary sessions, sector-specific discussions, business-to-business meetings and exhibitions, the forum aims to facilitate investment flows and foster long-term partnerships. Analysts believe it will further reinforce the growing role of private sector collaboration in driving India-Africa relations.

The 2026 summit is also expected to align future cooperation with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, providing renewed strategic momentum to the partnership. As global dynamics continue to evolve, the India-Africa Forum Summit remains a critical platform for shaping a shared future based on innovation, resilience and inclusive growth. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/india-to-host-fourth-india-africa-forum-summit-2026-in-new-delhi-to-strengthen-strategic-ties/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has underscored the importance of unity, resilience and collective responsibility as Sierra Leone celebrates its 65th Independence Anniversary, describing the nation’s journey as one defined by perseverance and unwavering hope for a brighter future.

Speaking on Monday, April 27, 2026, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh reflected on the country’s six and a half decades of nation-building, noting that Sierra Leone’s progress has been shaped by both challenges and achievements. He emphasized that despite periods of trial and error, the nation has remained firmly anchored in optimism and determination.

“Sierra Leone celebrates 65 years of independence, six and a half decades of nation building, a journey in trial and error but anchored in hope that our tomorrow will always be better than our today,” he stated.

The Vice President highlighted the enduring spirit of the Sierra Leonean people, describing it as a defining force that continues to drive national progress. According to him, the country’s resilience and shared belief in a prosperous future remain key pillars in its development trajectory.

“That is the magic of the Sierra Leonean people; we are a nation steeped in resilience and unequivocal faith in a collective future of growth and inclusive development,” he added.

Looking ahead, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh stressed the need for sustained commitment across generations to reshape the national narrative into one that prioritizes inclusivity, unity and equitable growth. He noted that Sierra Leone’s future must be built on the principle of leaving no citizen behind while harnessing the country’s abundant natural resources for the benefit of all.

“Our Sierra Leone at 65 years and beyond is one of inter-generational commitment to a different narrative; one of unity, no one left behind and harnessing our natural resources to transform the lives of every Sierra Leonean,” he affirmed.

He further called on citizens to continue embracing the spirit of national cohesion, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in achieving sustainable development goals.

“To do this, we must continue to leverage the spirit of one country, one people and one destiny; together we will always be stronger,” the Vice President urged.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh concluded his message by extending warm Independence Day wishes to Sierra Leoneans both at home and in the diaspora, encouraging all citizens to remain committed to national unity and progress.

“Happy Independence to all Sierra Leoneans at home and across the diaspora,” he said. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-calls-for-unity-resilience-as-sierra-leone-marks-65-years-of-independence/