Freetown, 18th March 2026 — The opposition All People’s Congress (APC) has threatened to stage a peaceful nationwide protest if Edmond Sylvester Alpha remains as Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL).
In a statement by the party’s Secretary General during a press conference at the party’s Headquarters in Freetown on 18th March 2026, the party declared it would not “lend legitimacy to a broken system,” but signalled willingness to engage in dialogue if conducted in good faith. “We are determined to stand for the people of this country,” the APC noted.
Mr. Alpha’s appointment was announced on February 20, 2026, in a public notice issued by the Office of the President. President Brigadier General (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio named him Chief Electoral Commissioner and ECSL Chairman pursuant to Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution.
The appointment has sparked sharp reactions, with the APC insisting that the leadership transition undermines confidence in the electoral process. The party’s threat of mass protest underscores growing political tension as Sierra Leone prepares for upcoming electoral activities.
Observers say the development highlights the need for dialogue between political stakeholders to safeguard public trust in the country’s democratic institutions.
