The Christian Lawyer Centre also known as Legal Link has expressed deep concern over the current state of affairs and political tensions surrounding the conduct of the upcoming June 2023 elections.

The organization has called for a de-escalation of the situation and the initiation of constructive dialogue among key stakeholders, including the government, the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL), political parties, the police, religious bodies, and the diplomatic community.

The recent exchange of claims and counterclaims between the main opposition party and the ruling government regarding the election process has raised alarm bells for Legal Link.

The organization has closely followed the position statements of Dr. Samura Kamara, the presidential aspirant of the opposition party, as well as the response of the President during his political rallies and addresses to supporters in the provinces.

Legal Link also expressed surprise at the decision of the ECSL to conduct early voting without prior notice regarding the logistical details such as the number of voters, voting locations, and specific dates and times. This lack of transparency raises concerns about the effectiveness of observation and monitoring by independent observers.

Recognizing its role as a reliable partner in the electioneering process, Legal Link has called for a temporary pause to allow all stakeholders to engage in peaceful dialogue. The organization emphasizes the need to address the concerns raised by aggrieved candidates and parties to ensure a free, fair, credible, and non-violent election process.

The organization points out that election-related violence in Africa often occurs when opportunities for dialogue and consultations are disregarded, and suspicions of fraud are left unaddressed before the elections. In the case of Sierra Leone, the current political climate, including calls for civil unrest, malicious threats, hate speeches, tribal rhetoric, and the erosion of trust in the ECSL, poses a clear and present danger to the security and integrity of the June 2023 elections.

In light of these challenges, Legal Link appeals to all political actors, as well as the diplomatic community and moral guarantors of Sierra Leone, to urgently convene a peaceful stakeholder dialogue. Such a dialogue would serve to address concerns, de-escalate tensions, and reduce inflammatory rhetoric, with the ultimate goal of ensuring a peaceful, fair, and successful election on June 24th, 2023.

With less than ten days remaining until the general elections, Legal Link highlights the unfortunate continuation of this atmosphere of panic, tension, and confusion. The organization warns that this situation may discourage voter turnout and contribute to voter apathy, undermining the democratic process.

Legal Link emphasizes that it is in the best interest of all political party leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. By creating a calm and conducive environment, they can incentivize voter participation and ultimately contribute to peaceful and successful elections.

The organization concludes by condemning all forms of violence, incitement, and hate speech, both domestically and abroad. Legal Link calls on all Sierra Leoneans to continue praying for the nation and to remain law-abiding and peaceful as they await the outcome of the anticipated stakeholder dialogue.

Furthermore, Legal Link calls on the ECSL to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability to the citizens, political parties, and the donor community, as outlined in their Guiding Principles. The organization also urges the Sierra Leone Police to act professionally in their interactions with the civilian population while carrying out their responsibilities during the June 2023 elections.