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On March 3, 2026, the National Election Watch (NEW) initiated its district-level elections aimed at strengthening internal democracy, starting with the districts of Koinadugu and Moyamba.
The elections, which will extend to all 17 districts, were held to elect District Coordinators, District Secretaries, and District teams who will, in turn, appoint chiefdom focal persons in the districts.
The process unfolded smoothly, with notable participation. In Moyamba, 37 organizations cast their votes, while 21 organizations in Koinadugu also took part in the election.
The participation reflected a strong commitment to the democratic process and showcased the enthusiasm of local organizations to contribute to the governance of the district.
A highlight of the day was the seamless transition of leadership. In Koinadugu, the outgoing District Coordinator immediately conceded defeat after the results were announced and pledged full support to NEW’s future efforts.
This act of sportsmanship exemplified the spirit of democratic transition. Similarly, in Moyamba, the retiring District Coordinator ensured a smooth handover to the newly elected team, further promoting a peaceful and respectful exchange of power.
The elections were observed and endorsed by representatives from the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL), ensuring transparency and credibility throughout the process. These endorsements underscored NEW’s commitment to holding fair and transparent elections at all levels.
NEW’s message remains clear: elections should never be a “do or die” affair. The organization encourages other districts to follow the examples set by Koinadugu and Moyamba in conducting orderly, peaceful, and respectful elections.
This initiative, which is part of a broader effort to strengthen democracy in Sierra Leone, is supported by International IDEA through the European Union’s Sierra Leone Democracy Strengthening Program.
With this strong start, NEW is poised to continue its vital work in promoting democratic values and encouraging responsible leadership across Sierra Leone’s districts.
