At the beginning of each academic year, the Eastern Technical University holds elections for the Student Union Government, which represents the students and acts as a liaison between the students and the administration.

As a learning platform for students, Student Union politics teaches students about politics and management. This year’s Student Union election is scheduled for Sunday, 19th November 2023, on the university campus.

In preparation for the election, Inspector Mohamed Corner, the operations officer of the Kenema Division, met with student leaders on November 13th, 2023, at his divisional office in Kenema. During the meeting, Inspector Corner emphasized the importance of communication and understanding between law enforcement and student representatives.

He encouraged transparency and collaboration, which are crucial principles in any democratic process.

The purpose of the meeting was to address potential concerns, grievances, and security issues so that they can be proactively resolved.

Inspector Saffa, the officer commanding the Operation Support Division (OSD), expressed concerns about the behavior of students during previous Student Union elections. He highlighted the issue of non-students disrupting the election process, making policing the elections at Eastern Technical University challenging. Inspector Saffa emphasized that the involvement of the police during elections signifies the commitment of the authorities to upholding the rule of law and maintaining a safe environment for all participants. It also helps to build trust between students and law enforcement, fostering a positive relationship and promoting a sense of security and fairness during the election.

Sub-Inspector BJ Musa from the Media and Community Relations Department believes that the police engagement with student leaders before the Student Union election in Kenema is a positive step towards ensuring a successful and peaceful election process. He highlighted the importance of open communication, collaboration, and creating a safe environment for everyone involved.

The electoral commissioner assured everyone that the November 19th elections would be conducted without corruption. He expressed his commitment to maintaining the trust and confidence placed in him.

In his closing remarks, Ibrahim Lecturer Koroma, the only aspirant, spoke about the importance of peace and the maintenance of law and order during the election.

In conclusion, it was agreed that a memorandum of understanding would be signed by the police and student leaders to ensure a commitment to peace and the maintenance of law and order during the election period.