In response to concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the ongoing review at the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), the Director of the Public Sector Reform Unit (PSRU), Sulaiman Phoray Musa, has clarified that the exercise is neither an investigation nor a witch hunt.

Speaking at a recent event, Musa explained that the review is a coordinated effort aimed at enhancing ECSL’s service delivery through a comprehensive management and systems review. The process is being supported technically by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES).

Musa emphasized that the review stems from six key recommendations outlined in the final Tripartite Committee report, specifically recommendations 6, 10, 20, 21, 72, and 77. He stated that the initiative is designed to ensure that ECSL’s operations align with modern best practices and address diagnostic concerns raised by stakeholders.

During a PowerPoint presentation on the review roadmap, Musa noted that the process would not only assess the 2023 general elections but also reflect on previous electoral cycles. He stressed that the inclusion of the security sector in the review was intended to provide a “human face” to the process, ensuring a balanced and inclusive approach.

The PSRU Director highlighted that this systems review also encompasses other public institutions to enhance their operational efficiency. He urged stakeholders to view the exercise as a step toward strengthening democracy and transparency in Sierra Leone’s electoral processes, rather than an effort to target any individual or institution.