By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Dr. Richard Konteh, former Chief of Staff and flagbearer aspirant of the All Peoples Congress (APC), has once again drawn public attention to what he described as unresolved abnormalities surrounding Sierra Leone’s 2023 elections.
Speaking on a public platform, Konteh underscored what he called persistent irregularities in the electoral process, arguing that such concerns remain central to the APC’s decision to distance itself from governance structures following the polls. According to him, the issues identified both before and after the announcement of results continue to cast doubt on the credibility of the outcome.
Konteh maintained that the circumstances under which the results of the 2023 Sierra Leone general elections were declared do not provide what he termed a sound moral basis for affirming a winner. Instead, he suggested that the situation at the time pointed more towards the need for a rerun rather than a definitive conclusion.
He further stressed that the decision by the APC to boycott aspects of governance was not taken lightly, but rather in response to what the party perceives as a flawed electoral process. He said such a stance was meant to signal the seriousness of their concerns and to demand accountability and transparency from relevant authorities.
The former Chief of Staff also highlighted what he described as a continued disregard for concerns raised by citizens and stakeholders. He noted that despite repeated calls for clarity, key questions about the electoral process have remained unanswered. This, he argued, has contributed to growing public unease and skepticism about the integrity of democratic institutions.
Konteh pointed to observations made by both local and international election observers, stating that several reports referenced statistical inconsistencies in the announced results. According to him, these findings should not be overlooked, as they form part of a broader narrative that challenges the credibility of the electoral outcome.
He emphasized that democracy thrives on trust, transparency and accountability, adding that any perception of irregularity, if not properly addressed, risks undermining public confidence in the system. Konteh warned that failure to resolve such issues could have long term implications for governance and national cohesion.
While reiterating his party’s position, he called on authorities to engage meaningfully with concerns raised by political actors and citizens alike. He stressed the importance of open dialogue and credible reforms aimed at strengthening electoral processes in the country.
Konteh concluded by urging stakeholders to prioritize the stability and democratic integrity of Sierra Leone, noting that addressing electoral concerns is essential to maintaining public trust. He maintained that only through transparency and accountability can confidence in the nation’s democratic processes be fully restored.
