Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, the leader of the National Grand Coalition (NGC) party, has offered a robust defense of the party’s support for the Chief Electoral Commissioner of Sierra Leone (ECSL).

The NGC leader emphasizes the constitutional qualifications for the appointment of the chief electoral commissioner, as outlined in Section 76(b) of Sierra Leone’s constitution.

According to Dr. Yumkella, a thorough analysis of this section affirms that Mr. Mohamed Kenawui Konneh meets the criteria and is fully qualified to assume the role of chief electoral commissioner.

“Section 76(b) of our constitution clearly lays out the requirements for the appointment of a chief electoral commissioner,” Dr. Yumkella stated. “After carefully reviewing this section, the NGC, are convinced that Mr. Mohamed Kenawui Konneh possesses the necessary qualifications and is fit to serve as chief electoral commissioner,” he stated.

The NGC’s show of support for Mr. Konneh follows the APC’s allegations of non-transparency and collusion between the ECSL and the incumbent government to manipulate the upcoming elections.

The APC had demanded the immediate resignation of Mr. Konneh and all electoral commissioners, calling for their replacement with an independent, internationally accredited team of electoral commissioners.