The Deputy Justice Minister, Alpha Sesay Esq., on Tuesday 14th May, 2024 clarified that the Tripartite Committee formed to review the June 2023 national elections will not consider a re-run of the elections.

Making the clarification during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Deputy Minister addressed misconceptions about the committee’s mandate, asserting that the committee’s work does not involve re-running the 2023 national elections.

Alpha Sesay Esq. firmly rebuffed any assertions that linked the committee’s activities to the prospect of re-running the 2023 national elections.

He therefore cautioned against misinformation that has caused public confusion and emphasized that the committee’s primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive review of Sierra Leone’s electoral systems, structures and processes, aiming to recommend substantial reforms.

Dismissing speculation about an imminent re-run election, the Deputy Minister reiterated that the committee’s focus is on electoral reform, not on replacing His Excellency President Brig. (Rtd) Julius Maada Bio’s current term.

He highlighted that any grievances regarding electoral outcomes should follow due legal processes, including recourse to the Supreme Court, adhering strictly to established procedures and protocols.

The Deputy Minister also outlined the timeline for Sierra Leone’s next national elections scheduled for 2028 and affirmed that the window for any immediate re-run national elections has closed.

On the ongoing Sierra Leone Constitutional Review Process, Alpha Sesay Esq. emphasized the significance of the constitution and government’s commitment to transparency throughout the review process.

He assured citizens that President Bio prioritizes upholding the law and ensuring a better future for all Sierra Leoneans.

“President Bio is committed to leaving a strong legal framework for the country,” Sesay stated. “This is why we’ve focused on informing and educating the public about the review process.”

He clarified that President Bio aims to complete a review process initiated over two decades ago.

This process began with the 1999 Lomé Peace Agreement, which called for a constitution reflecting the needs and aspirations of the people.

“The agreement mandated a constitutional review committee to assess our current constitution and recommend revisions,” Sesay explained. “This committee was established by legislation following the signing of the peace agreement.”