Dr. Alex Harding Accused of Fraud
The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) is facing a political storm following a series of violent incidents that marred its ongoing lower-level elections across the country. In particular, the elections in Bo District have drawn national attention after reports of electoral fraud and orchestrated violence, allegedly masterminded by senior party officials.
At the center of the controversy is the embattled SLPP National Chairman, Dr. Alex Prince Harding, who has been accused of orchestrating a series of irregularities that severely undermined the integrity of the electoral process. According to many eyewitness reports and party insiders, the elections in Bo — intended to select chairpersons at the constituency and district levels — quickly descended into chaos amid claims of intimidation, ballot manipulation, and physical attacks on delegates.
Party stakeholders and grassroots supporters have expressed deep disappointment and outrage over the unfolding events, which they say contradict the core values of transparency, democracy, and fair representation that the SLPP claims to uphold. The situation became so contentious that senior party executives were compelled to intervene decisively.
In a dramatic move aimed at salvaging the party’s image and restoring public confidence, the SLPP executive has officially removed Dr. Harding from his role as Returning Officer for the elections. This decision follows growing concerns over his alleged role in fueling tensions and manipulating outcomes to favor certain factions within the party.
A senior party official, who spoke under anonymity, confirmed the decision, stating, “It became clear that Dr. Harding’s involvement was compromising the credibility of the process. The violence in Bo is a clear reflection of failed leadership and deliberate interference. The executive could no longer allow the elections to proceed under his oversight.”
Footage and photos from Bo show scenes of unrest — including broken chairs, scattered ballot papers, and injured delegates — painting a grim picture of what was meant to be a peaceful democratic exercise. Eyewitnesses reported that police had to intervene in some areas to restore calm.
The internal elections, which are pivotal for the preparation of the party’s structures ahead of the 2028 general elections, now hang in the balance. The fallout threatens to deepen divisions within the SLPP, as factions loyal to Dr. Harding are now at odds with reform-minded groups demanding accountability and restructuring.
Civil society organizations, including the Campaign for Good Governance and the National Elections Watch (NEW), have called on the SLPP leadership to conduct an independent investigation into the incidents and ensure justice for those affected.
“The violence and irregularities in Bo are not just internal party matters — they reflect on the entire democratic process of the country. The SLPP as the ruling party, has a responsibility to set a standard,” said a spokesperson from NEW.
Meanwhile, opposition parties have seized on the situation to question the ruling party’s commitment to democratic principles, warning that the events could foreshadow similar chaos in future national elections if not addressed urgently.
As Sierra Leoneans watch closely, the SLPP’s leadership is now under intense pressure to take bold steps toward reconciliation, accountability, and reform — starting with a transparent review of the flawed electoral process and a clear roadmap to restoring order.
For now, the fate of the SLPP’s internal democracy, and perhaps its national credibility, lies in how swiftly and transparently it can manage this crisis. All eyes remain on the party’s executive leadership as it navigates one of its most significant internal challenges in recent years.
