President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has reaffirmed his commitment to democratic consolidation and institutional reforms following the official presentation of the 2024 Annual Report of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL). The report was handed over by the Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman, Mohamed K. Konneh, during a formal ceremony on Thursday July 19, 2025 at State House in Freetown.

The comprehensive report, presented in accordance with Section 32(12) of the 1991 Constitution, outlines the Commission’s activities, milestones, financial performance and challenges throughout the final year of the 2020–2024 Electoral Cycle Strategic Plan.

In his presentation, Mohamed K. Konneh praised the Government’s consistent support for the Commission's independence and impartiality. He acknowledged President Bio's critical role in enabling ECSL to carry out its constitutional responsibilities without interference, emphasizing that such democratic leadership has strengthened public confidence in the electoral process.

Highlighting key achievements, the Chief Electoral Commissioner pointed to the successful implementation of the Proportional Representation (PR) system. “The PR system, introduced upon the Commission’s recommendation and endorsed through your directive, Your Excellency, has been a pivotal step toward inclusive governance,” he stated. “It allowed us to meet the 30% gender quota for women in elective office, ensured peaceful elections and expanded voter participation across the country.”

Mohamed K. Konneh further reported that the 2023 general elections were widely acknowledged as free, fair and transparent. He stressed that the PR system helped minimize electoral tension and reduced public expenditure, saving the Government over NLe19 million by filling 14 parliamentary and council vacancies through party list nominations, thereby avoiding costly by-elections and potential post-election conflict.

Describing 2024 as a year of consolidation, Mohamed K. Konneh noted that the ECSL has been actively reviewing its strategies and strengthening internal systems in preparation for the next electoral cycle (2025–2029). He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to professionalism, transparency and collaboration with stakeholders to preserve electoral integrity.

In response, President Bio thanked the ECSL leadership and staff for their dedicated service and commended them for conducting an election that truly reflected the will of the people. “Managing elections in our region is a formidable task, yet you did so with dignity and transparency. Your work will stand the test of time,” the President said.

The Head of State reiterated his belief in democratic governance and expressed deep personal interest in electoral reforms. “I vigorously campaigned across this nation to win the people’s mandate. From that experience, I understand the importance of a credible electoral system and feel morally obligated to support its review,” President Bio stated.

He pledged to thoroughly review the ECSL’s 2024 Annual Report alongside other critical documents, including the report of the Tripartite Committee and the Independent Management and Functional Review of the Commission. These, he said, would form the basis for a comprehensive approach to electoral reform.

“I am fully committed to implementing the reform recommendations in accordance with the law. Every action we take will be guided by the Constitution and aimed at strengthening our democratic institutions,” President Bio concluded.

The event marked a significant step in Sierra Leone’s democratic journey, as the Government and electoral body continue to work collaboratively to enhance electoral transparency, inclusivity and credibility in future elections. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ecsl-presents-2024-report-to-president-bio-highlights-achievements-and-challenges/