Honorable Ministers and Ministers Deputy of Government; Honorable Members of Parliament; Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps; international and private sector partners; members of civil society; and other distinguished guests, good morning.

It is an honor to address you on this significant night as we witness the democratic process in action in the United States.

Tonight, we find ourselves in a situation where the election results are likely to remain too close to call for several days. This moment is a testament to the vibrant and competitive nature of American democracy.

In times like these, it is crucial to remember the importance of patience and the integrity of the electoral process. The democratic process is not just about the outcome, but about ensuring that every vote is counted and that the will of the people is accurately reflected.

This requires time, diligence, and a commitment to transparency. The role of electoral commissions and other bodies involved in the election is paramount. They are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring a fair and transparent count, and we must allow them the space and time to perform their duties without undue pressure. It is essential that we respect the process and avoid drawing premature conclusions. While no system is perfect, the commitment to continuous improvement and reform is what strengthens our respective democracies.

As Ambassador of the United States of America, I want to acknowledge that we are on a journey of perfecting our democracy. We understand the complexities and the dedication required to maintain a fair and just electoral process. Our history is filled with lessons learned and ongoing efforts to improve. It is in this spirit of shared values and mutual respect that we stand together in our pursuit of democratic excellence.

International cooperation plays a vital role in supporting democratic reforms. The United States, along with other international partners, is committed to providing support and assistance to nations around the world as they continue to strengthen their democratic institutions. This support includes technical assistance, capacity building, and sharing best practices. By working together, we can help ensure that the democratic process is inclusive, transparent, and credible.

Sierra Leone has made commendable strides in its electoral reforms. The signature of the Agreement for National Unity and the final report of the Tripartite Committee are significant Steps forward.

The commitments made and the recommendations agreed to by both major parties will strengthen democratic institutions, advance national cohesion, and ensure more transparent, inclusive, and fair elections. The ongoing efforts to

implement the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee are crucial in building a robust – electoral system that can withstand challenges and uphold the will of the people. In addition to enhancing voter education, improving the accuracy of voter registration, and ensuring the independence of the electoral commission, these measures will foster public trust and confidence in the electoral process.

This is not the first time in recent history that we have had such a close election in the United States. But we have a strong system in place to ensure proper counting of the votes, and we remain committed to following the rules to ensure a fair election result.

The strength of a democracy lies not only in the act of voting but in the collective commitment to uphold democratic principles. Let us continue to work together, learn from each other, and support the ongoing reforms that will shape a brighter future for our nations.

The success of democracy in any country is a success for democracy everywhere. It is a reminder that, despite the challenges, the principles of freedom, equality, and justice can prevail.

Let us move forward with hope and determination, knowing that the futures of the United States and Sierra Leone are bright and full of promise.

Thank you.