The Center for Accountability and the Rule of Law (CARL) has issued a strong appeal to the Government of Sierra Leone and the main opposition, All People’s Congress (APC) Party, highlighting the urgent need to implement the recommendations from the recently released tripartite report.

Speaking to Awoko, CARL’s Head of Programs Jeremy Ben Simbo emphasized the importance of adhering to the report’s recommendations to safeguard national stability. He warned that neglecting these recommendations could jeopardize the country’s peace.

The tripartite report was developed in response to last year’s multi-tier elections, which saw the APC Party contest the results, alleging electoral fraud and subsequently boycotting government participation. Efforts by ECOWAS, the African Union, and other partners resulted in a communiqué that led to the formation of a tripartite committee tasked with addressing electoral grievances and suggesting reforms.

The committee presented its findings to the President on July 1, 2024. The report includes 80 recommendations aimed at creating an environment conducive to free, fair, and transparent elections, ensuring outcomes acceptable to all parties.

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Simbo stressed the necessity of effective implementation, noting past difficulties in converting policies and laws into meaningful actions. CARL called on all stakeholders, including the government, opposition parties, international partners, and citizens, to work together to implement the recommendations and uphold electoral integrity.

Reflecting on regional consultations, CARL expressed optimism that the recommendations would be executed promptly and collaboratively, in the bipartisan spirit that shaped the report’s creation. The NGO also called for an inclusive and accountable implementation process, emphasizing the need for ongoing consultation and engagement with all parties involved.

CARL appealed for sustained technical and financial support from development partners throughout the implementation phase. The organization’s plea resonated as a call for unity and commitment among Sierra Leonean stakeholders to uphold democratic principles and ensure credible electoral processes in the future.