The Consortium of Progressive Political Parties (CoPPP) recently issued a statement addressing the June 24th multitier elections in Sierra Leone.

In their statement, CoPPP expressed their appreciation for the massive turnout and participation of Sierra Leoneans in the elections. The consortium took pride in their role in mass sensitization, political education, and mobilization of communities in preparation for the elections.

However, CoPPP raised serious concerns about the democratic space in Sierra Leone over the past five years, stating that key institutions and sectors have been undermined, reducing them to mere puppets of the ruling regime. They viewed the June 24th, 2023 elections as the last opportunity for liberation from an increasingly autocratic system.

The failure of the Elections Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to deliver free, fair, and credible elections was heavily criticized. Both national and international observers condemned the declared results for lacking transparency and integrity. CoPPP accused the ECSL of alienating observers during the tallying and tabulation process, undermining the legitimacy of the results.

To restore the legitimacy of local councils, the Sierra Leone Parliament, and the Presidency, CoPPP demanded that the ECSL release the polling station data used in the result tabulation. They further urged for an independent audit of the ECSL’s conduct during the 2023 elections to identify flaws and rectify them.

Regarding the current political stand-off, CoPPP supported the main opposition All People’s Congress party’s (APC) decision to boycott participation in governance activities until the matter of the government’s legitimacy is transparently addressed.

In response to political violence during the elections, CoPPP called for swift investigations and punitive measures against perpetrators to initiate a healing process and restore public trust in the justice system.

The consortium also requested adequate security for APC supporters in certain regions to return to their homes and businesses without fear of persecution. They called on regional bodies such as ECOWAS and the AU to intervene and find a resolution to the political crisis in Sierra Leone.

CoPPP appealed to the wider international community, especially development partners, to take necessary steps to prevent Sierra Leone from descending into a one-party dictatorship. They emphasized that genuine elections are essential for peaceful government transitions and urged Sierra Leoneans to continue believing in democracy.

In conclusion, CoPPP called upon Sierra Leoneans to stand strong and resist oppression, with support from both African and international partners, in their pursuit of democratic governance. Transparent and accountable electoral processes are crucial to ensuring the country’s stability and progress.