By Forum staff writer
The International Moral Guarantors have concluded a third assessment mission to Sierra Leone, urging stronger collaboration and faster implementation of key reforms under the Agreement for National Unity signed between the government and the opposition All People’s Congress.
The mission, conducted from April 13 to 20, 2026, reviewed progress on the agreement and the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee, focusing on sustaining peace, stability, and democratic governance ahead of the 2028 elections.
The joint delegation was co led by Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, Barrie Freeman, and Tanmaya Lal. They were supported by John Azumah and Seraphine Wakana.
During their visit, the team held consultations with President Julius Maada Bio, senior government officials including Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh, Attorney General Alpha Sesay, and the leadership of the All People’s Congress led by Osman Foday Yansaneh. Engagements also included Parliament, electoral bodies, security agencies, Civil Society Organizations, and the diplomatic community.
The mission acknowledged both progress and ongoing challenges in implementing the unity agreement. It noted commitments from both the government and the APC to rebuild trust, enhance dialogue, and improve inclusive decision making.
A key development welcomed by the delegation is the tabling of the Constitution Amendment Bill 2025 in Parliament. The mission urged lawmakers and stakeholders to work collectively toward completing constitutional and legislative reforms while strengthening national institutions.
Facilitated by the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, the mission also supported dialogue between the government and the APC to address operational issues affecting the Tripartite Steering Committee.
Among major outcomes, the parties agreed to establish a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Electoral Matters to review the electoral cycle and guide reforms ahead of the 2028 polls. Plans were also set to restructure and expand the implementation framework of the agreement, including the creation of a high level oversight mechanism and broader representation involving other political parties and civil society.
The agreement further includes forming a team of legal experts to support constitutional and legislative reforms, and strengthening existing national security platforms to enhance election related coordination.
On electoral reforms, both sides committed to restructuring the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone by December 31, 2026, in line with the unity agreement. They also agreed that any delays would prompt renewed engagement with the moral guarantors.
The mission welcomed the APC’s decision to end its boycott and rejoin governance processes, describing it as a critical step toward inclusive governance.
On the upcoming population census, both parties agreed it should serve as a development and governance tool, with an inclusive approach involving all stakeholders in its use.
The delegation emphasized the importance of consensus on the electoral system for 2028, alongside improvements in voter registration and results management systems to ensure transparency and credibility.
It also called on political leaders and citizens to avoid hate speech, misinformation, and inflammatory rhetoric, warning that such actions could undermine national cohesion.
Reaffirming its commitment, the mission pledged continued support to Sierra Leone’s democratic process, stressing that sustained dialogue and cooperation remain essential for long term peace and stability.
