The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has firmly debunked reports claiming it plans to recruit 256 staff from its portal describing the information as “false” and not originating from the Commission.
Speaking at the launch of the Political Parties Liaison Committee meeting on Wednesday, Chief Electoral Commissioner and National Returning Officer, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, clarified that no such decision has been made at any level of the institution.
“The report in the public domain stating that the Commission will be relieving 256 staff is fake—it is not true and does not come from us,” Alpha emphasized, urging the public and media to disregard the claim.
Instead, the Commissioner outlined a broad reform agenda focused on strengthening the Commission’s operations ahead of the 2028–2029 electoral cycle.
Key priorities include a comprehensive review of voter registration centers to assess accessibility and adequacy, as well as a major organizational and staff restructuring process.
Alpha revealed that the restructuring phase has already commenced in consultation with the Public Sector Reform Unit, the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO), and other key stakeholders.
He stressed that the process will be transparent, merit-based, and inclusive.
“We are going to keep the process very open to the public. Political parties and stakeholders will be fully informed every step of the way,” he said.
The ECSL is also working closely with the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice on legal electoral reforms, alongside ongoing efforts to procure modern voter registration equipment and software.
Alpha further disclosed that the Commission’s new strategic plan is now in place and will soon undergo validation with active participation from registered political parties at both regional and national levels.
The plan is expected to guide the Commission’s activities through the next electoral cycle.
“This strategic plan will take us to 2028 and beyond. Input from political parties and stakeholders will be highly encouraged before final approval,” he added.
The ECSL says more details on the reforms and implementation timeline will be provided by the Commission’s Chairman and technical team in subsequent engagements.
Several Political Parties were present including Sierra Leone Peoples Party but not All Peoples Congress Party.
