APPA-SL Responds to June 2023 Multi-Tier Elections and Future of Democracy in Sierra Leone

The Alliance of Political Parties of Sierra Leone (APPA-SL) issued a press statement today addressing the recently held June 24th multi-tier elections and emphasizing the future prospects of democratic governance in the country.

In a show of unity, the various political parties constituting APPA-SL acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding the elections. Without engaging in speculative or baseless claims, the alliance wished to communicate the following points:

1. Positive Election Assessment: APPA-SL acknowledged its participation in the national elections and praised the transparency, inclusivity, and peace observed during the June 24th Multi-tier Elections. While recognizing imperfections, the alliance aligned itself with the overall positive outcome. It highlighted that even established democracies have faced their own election challenges.
2. Congratulations to the President: The alliance congratulated His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on his successful re-election.
3. Support for President’s Campaign: APPA-SL noted the extensive nationwide campaign conducted by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, focusing on key manifesto commitments. The alliance underlined the resonance of his message with the citizens, which led to his electoral victory.
4. Acceptance of Election Outcome: Although APPA-SL participated with the intention of winning, it acknowledged President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s triumph in the June 24th Presidential Elections. The alliance expressed readiness to collaborate with him for Sierra Leone’s progress.
5. Gratitude for Peaceful Conduct: APPA-SL extended gratitude to the people of Sierra Leone for their peaceful conduct during and after the elections.
6. Absence of Election Violence: The alliance highlighted with pride that no instances of gender-based or election-related violence targeting women and children were reported.
7. Praise from Observers: APPA-SL acknowledged the widespread praise from both international and local observers for the peaceful and transparent conduct of the election, with minimal challenges.
8. Respect for Various Statements: APPA-SL recognized the individual statements from the leadership of nine political parties regarding the election’s outcome, emphasizing the importance of respecting diverse viewpoints.
9. Observer Mission Expectations: The alliance emphasized the expectation that credible observer organizations conduct themselves responsibly and refrain from making incendiary statements.
10. Addressing Diplomatic Protocol: APPA-SL criticized the outgoing US Ambassador’s statement as a breach of diplomatic principles and called for diplomats to engage established state institutions and government channels for addressing concerns.
11. Support for Electoral Review Committee: The alliance appreciated President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s establishment of the Electoral Review Committee to enhance electoral processes. It called for inclusive participation of political parties in the committee.
12. Inclusivity for Smaller Parties: APPA-SL highlighted the historical disadvantage faced by smaller or emerging political parties and appealed for their active involvement in governance processes.
13. Observer Status Clarification: The alliance requested a review of the roles of observer status, establishing clear boundaries for their activities.
14. Respecting Diplomatic Boundaries: APPA-SL urged diplomats to adhere to the Vienna Convention, refraining from interfering in a country’s internal politics.
15. Focus on National Unity: APPA-SL called on the government to prioritize development, national cohesion, inclusive governance, peace consolidation, human rights protection, rule of law, and press freedom.
16. Unity over Partisanship: The alliance urged political parties to prioritize national interests over self-serving or partisan agendas.
17. National Dialogue Forum: APPA-SL called for a national dialogue forum to address political tensions and long-standing challenges.
18. Safeguarding Sovereignty: The alliance reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s sovereignty and stressed the importance of preserving it.
19. Gratitude to Development Partners: APPA-SL thanked development partners for their support in advancing democracy and good governance.
20. Upholding Peaceful Discourse: The alliance encouraged Sierra Leoneans to engage in peaceful dialogue, avoiding divisive and inflammatory comments.

In this statement, APPA-SL reiterated its commitment to democratic governance, unity, and the well-being of Sierra Leone and its citizens.