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With less than eight months remaining in the term of Chief Electoral Commissioner Mohamed Kenewui Konneh, President Rtd. Brig. Julius Maada Bio is expected to announce a new appointment for the role of Chief Electoral Commissioner and National Returning Officer of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) soon.
Mohamed Konneh, who was appointed in July 2020, confirmed several months ago that he would not seek reappointment from the president, despite his mandate set to conclude in July 2025. The decision not to pursue another term has prompted speculation regarding who will be selected as his successor.
Historically, Konneh’s appointment came under scrutiny as it was made without prior consultation with registered political parties, raising concerns about the inclusivity and transparency of the electoral process in Sierra Leone. Observers are now questioning whether President Bio will adopt a similar approach for the upcoming appointment or take steps to involve political stakeholders more comprehensively.
As the political landscape prepares for this critical appointment, the attention remains focused on the president’s decision, which could significantly impact the credibility of the electoral process leading up to the next elections.
No names have been leaked regarding potential candidates, and it remains uncertain whether the new appointment will reflect a broader consensus among political parties. As the date of the announcement approaches, stakeholders across the political spectrum are urging for a transparent and inclusive process to ensure public confidence in the ECSL.
