The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs has officially announced new dates for the re-declaration of rights in the paramount chieftaincy election of Perri Chiefdom.

According to the Ministry, the re-declaration is scheduled for November 25, 2024, with polling set for December 9, 2024.

This decision comes in the wake of recent issues raised regarding the fairness of the electoral process. One of the leading candidates, Vincent Moiwo Kamara Koroma, alleged that he was unjustly denied the opportunity to contest in the upcoming election.

His claims have sparked broader discussions about the transparency and fairness of the chieftaincy electoral procedures.

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A high-level meeting convened at the office of the Minister of Local Government in Freetown gathered key stakeholders, including representatives from the Provincial Secretary’s office and the National Electoral Commission (NEC). During the meeting, the participants examined the procedural steps leading up to the election and reviewed the possibility of conducting a referendum to clarify the rights associated with chieftaincy candidacy.

However, there was a consensus among stakeholders that such a referendum would be unnecessary and potentially damaging to the electoral process. Concerns were raised that the referendum could undermine the fairness of the election, compromise the rights of candidates, and erode public trust in local governance.

The Ministry, recognizing these risks, decided to temporarily postpone the election to allow for a thorough review of the process.

Ministry officials emphasized their commitment to ensuring that the paramount chieftaincy election would proceed without interference, and that all candidates would be afforded their rightful opportunities to participate.

This pause is seen as a necessary step to maintain the integrity of the election and restore confidence in the local governance system.

The Ministry also announced that a similar re-declaration of rights will take place in Kwame Bai Krim, Bonthe District, on November 20, 2024, with polling scheduled for December 9, 2024.

This approach highlights the government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles by ensuring that all electoral processes across the country are conducted fairly and transparently.

As the Ministry continues to collaborate with the NEC to address these electoral concerns, its efforts to safeguard the rights of candidates and the integrity of the electoral system are expected to strengthen public trust in local governance.

The new dates for the re-declaration of rights in Perri Chiefdom represent a critical step towards resolving the issues at hand and ensuring that future elections are free, fair, and transparent.

By taking this decisive action, the Ministry reaffirms its dedication to promoting democratic values and enhancing the legitimacy of local elections in Sierra Leone.