By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, has openly rejected the appointment of Alex Pat Labib Saffa as the new Electoral Commissioner for the Eastern Region, citing what he describes as a clear violation of constitutional provisions.

The dramatic moment unfolded during a parliamentary interview session, where Members of Parliament were vetting presidential nominees for high-level public offices. In a strong act of protest, Hon. Abdul Kargbo walked out of the proceedings, expressing his disapproval of Alex Pat Labib Saffa’s nomination.

According to the Opposition Leader, the appointment is unconstitutional, as it involves a former public servant being nominated to a position that, in his view, requires strict political neutrality. “From my own side, I will not be part of anything that goes against the norm of our state, which is our constitution,” Hon.  Abdul Kargbo asserted.

The controversial nominee, Alex Pat Labib Saffa, was recently confirmed by a Press Release from State House as President Bio’s appointee to head the Electoral Commission in the Eastern Region.

Under Sierra Leone’s Constitution, all presidential nominees for key public offices, including Ministers and Commissioners, must be vetted and approved by Parliament. The appointment of electoral Commissioners in particular is considered sensitive due to the importance of maintaining the independence and impartiality of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL), which oversees national and local elections.

Hon. Abdul Kargbo’s rejection of the nominee signals potential tensions between the ruling party and the opposition over the independence and credibility of electoral institutions. It also raises broader questions about adherence to constitutional checks and balances in key governance processes.

As of press time, there has been no official response from State House or the Electoral Commission regarding the opposition’s objections. However, political analysts warn that the unfolding disagreement may deepen mistrust between the two major parties, especially ahead of any future electoral processes.

The appointment of electoral Commissioners remains a critical element in strengthening democratic governance in Sierra Leone. Calls are now mounting for greater transparency and constitutional fidelity in such appointments to ensure public confidence in the country’s electoral system. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/opposition-leader-rejects-electoral-commissioner-nominee-cites-constitutional-breach/