By Kelfala Kargbo

Freetown, 18th June 2026 – In preparation for the 2028 general elections, the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with six civil society organizations (CSOs), strengthening collaboration to build public trust in the electoral process.

The agreement, signed at the ECSL headquarters, commits the parties to work together in promoting public awareness and encouraging wider electoral participation.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Electoral Commissioner and ECSL Chairman, Edmond Alpha, emphasized the central role of civil society in credible elections. “Civil society organizations are not external observers of our electoral process; they are essential partners. This MOU formalizes a relationship built on mutual trust, shared responsibility, and a common vision for transparent and inclusive elections,” he said.

Commissioner Alpha noted that the wording of the MOU had been carefully considered, stressing that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to development. He added that constructive engagement in the electoral process is key, with CSOs expected to provide moral support to ECSL.

Article 1 of the MOU outlines the responsibilities of the partnership, requiring parties to share information that advances their objectives. Article 3 permits CSOs to collaborate with other institutions but discourages partnerships with political parties contesting elections.

The six CSOs include: Centre for Accountability and the Rule of Law–Sierra Leone (CARL‑SL), Election Observer Network, Youth Network in Election and Governance, Men on a Mission Global, Sierra Leone Association of the Blind and the Sierra Leone Commercial Motor Bike Riders Union (SLCMBRU)

Jeremy Simbo, Executive Director of CARL‑SL, welcomed the partnership, noting that credible elections are the product of sustained investment in strong institutions, public trust, and accountability. “The lessons from previous electoral cycles remind us that the legitimacy of outcomes depends not only on the conduct of voting but also on the confidence citizens place in the process,” he said.

ECSL Regional Commissioners urged CSOs to help defend the Commission against misinformation and to promote the implementation of ECSL’s strategic plan.