Moscow, 21st September, 2026 — Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, His Excellency Mohamed Yongawo, has joined more than 1,100 international observers accredited to monitor Russia’s three‑day electoral process held from September 18–20.
According to Ella Pamfilova, Chairperson of the Central Election Commission of the Russian Federation, observers from 133 countries were invited to witness the polls, underscoring the global interest in Russia’s electoral process. Ambassador Yongawo’s participation placed Sierra Leone among nations contributing to international oversight of democratic practices.
Observers visited polling stations, attended briefings at the Central Election Commission, monitored the election Situation Room, and engaged directly with voters and officials. The program brought together diplomats, election experts, and representatives from Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Africa. The African Union was represented by senior officials including Marine Siaba Kakasi, Head of the Democracy and Elections Unit, and Ambassador Calixte Aristide Mbari, Head of the Division of Democracy, Elections, Constitutionalism, Rule of Law and Transitional Justice.
Ambassador Yongawo, who also serves as Deputy Dean of the Group of African Heads of Mission in Moscow, has been an active figure in Russia’s diplomatic community since assuming his post. His work has focused on strengthening Sierra Leone–Russia ties in education, investment, mining, tourism, fisheries, agriculture, technology, and parliamentary cooperation.
His participation in the international observation program not only reinforced Sierra Leone’s diplomatic presence in Moscow but also provided opportunities to deepen institutional engagement with counterparts from across the world.
The Embassy of Sierra Leone in Moscow emphasized that Ambassador Yongawo’s role highlights the country’s commitment to contributing to international exchanges on electoral processes, democratic institutions, and parliamentary affairs.
For inquiries: Festus J. Lahai, Information Attaché, Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Moscow. Email: [email protected] Website: www.slembassyrussia.org
