By Forum staff writer
The Political Parties Regulation Commission PPRC has warned that it will take firm action against the All people’s congress (APC) or any political party or individual that fails to comply with the Political Parties Act, regardless of political affiliation.
Speaking on AYV’s Wake Up Sierra Leone programme, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Olushogo Davies, said the PPRC’s main responsibility is to ensure that the legal framework governing political parties is protected and respected at all times.
Davies stressed that the law applies equally to all parties, including the All People’s Congress (APC)and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). He said the Commission will not hesitate to act against any party or official that violates the rules, noting that political influence or party loyalty will not be considered.
“As far as we are concerned, our principal responsibility is to make sure that the Political Parties Act which governs our operations is protected,” Davies said.
He explained that when a party or an individual fails to adhere to regulations, the Commission follows due process as clearly stated in the law. According to him, the first step usually involves notifying the concerned party or individual and outlining what is required of them.
Davies said that if fines or sanctions are imposed and the party or individual fails to pay or comply within the stipulated time and conditions, the Commission has no option but to move to the next stage of enforcement.
He noted that the law provides for stronger measures, including suspension, if non compliance continues. Such suspension, he explained, affects all activities that the affected party intends to undertake until the matter is resolved.
“If the person or party fails to pay on time or fails to comply according to the rules sent to them, we have no option but to move to the next stage as the law provides,” he stated.
The Executive Secretary emphasized that these measures are not meant to punish political parties unnecessarily, but to ensure discipline, fairness and respect for the rule of law within the country’s democratic system.
Davies also urged political parties to take their legal obligations seriously and to engage the Commission whenever they are unsure about any aspect of the regulations. He said the PPRC remains open to dialogue and guidance, but will not compromise on enforcement.
He added that strict compliance with the Political Parties Act is essential for maintaining transparency, accountability and public trust in the political process.
The PPRC, he concluded, will continue to carry out its mandate professionally and without fear or favor, ensuring that all political parties operate within the boundaries of the law for the benefit of democracy in Sierra Leone.
