Freetown 11th February 2026- President Julius Maada Bio has formally initiated consultations with political party leaders on his intention to appoint Mr. Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone.
The move is in line with Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution [Act No. 6 of 1991], which stipulates that members of the Electoral Commission shall be appointed by the President after consultation with leaders of all registered political parties and subject to parliamentary approval.
In a letter signed by Baba B. Fortune, Secretary to the President, party leaders were requested to submit their views on the proposed appointment within three working days from the date of the correspondence.
The consultation process marks a key step in ensuring transparency and inclusivity in the appointment of electoral officials, reinforcing constitutional provisions designed to safeguard Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions.
If confirmed by Parliament, Mr. Alpha will assume responsibility for overseeing the Electoral Commission, a body central to the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections in the country.
Edmond Sylvester Alpha stepped into national prominence when he was appointed Acting Chairman and Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) on July 21, 2025, following the conclusion of his predecessor’s term.
At the time, Alpha was serving as Electoral Commissioner for the Southern Region, a role that had given him direct oversight of electoral processes in one of the country’s key political zones. His elevation was confirmed through a letter signed by Secretary to the President, Baba B. Fortune, and later ratified on July 29, 2025, cementing his position at the helm of the Commission.
