As the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party prepares for the commencement of its lower-level elections, the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) is under a mounting pressure to ensure the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) concludes its own pending internal electoral processes.
Stakeholders have raised concerns over the slow pace of the SLPP’s lower-level elections, which have faced delays in several districts.
Political observers and civil society groups have argued that while the APC is preparing to energize its grassroots base through upcoming elections, the SLPP appears stalled, creating a perceived imbalance within the political landscape.
The PPRC, tasked with monitoring and regulating political parties’ activities, is now being urged to intensify its engagement with the ruling party to ensure that its internal elections are conducted swiftly, fairly, and in accordance with the law.
Critics are worried that prolonged delays may breed internal discontent, weaken party cohesion, and raise credibility issues for both the SLPP and the commission.
In response to public pressure, some SLPP officials have attributed the delays to internal disputes and the need to harmonize delegates’ lists.
They have, however, assured supporters that preparations are in place to resume and complete the process soon.
With the APC’s lower-level elections expected to begin soon, many believe the PPRC’s handling of the SLPP situation will be a test of its impartiality and effectiveness.
Analysts have warned that the commission must act decisively to maintain public confidence in Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions.
As the country’s two major political parties navigate their internal processes, the timely and transparent conclusion of all lower-level elections is seen as essential to ensuring credible participation in future national political events.