Freetown – The opposition All People’s Congress (APC) has announced a leadership change in its representation under the Agreement for National Unity, replacing former presidential candidate Dr. Samura Kamara with Dr. Kaifala Marah as Chief Negotiator.
The agreement, signed in the aftermath of the disputed June 2023 elections, was a political settlement between President Julius Maada Bio’s government and the APC. It paved the way for the creation of the Tripartite Committee on Electoral Systems Review and opened a channel for sustained inter-party dialogue.
Although the APC has not explained why Dr. Kamara was relieved of the role, party insiders suggest the decision is part of efforts to strengthen its negotiation strategy.
Dr. Marah, who initially declined to endorse the final accord despite being part of the negotiating team, will now lead discussions on the implementation of its key provisions.
What is the Agreement for National Unity
* The Agreement for National Unity was signed on 18 October 2023 between the Government of Sierra Leone (led by the Sierra Leone People’s Party, SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) after tensions following the June 2023 general and presidential elections.
* It was the outcome of a three-day mediated dialogue (16-18 October 2023) facilitated by various mediators including the African Union, ECOWAS, Commonwealth, and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC).
Key Provisions / Main Elements
* Establishment of a Cross-Party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review (often called the Tripartite Committee). Its tasks include examining the electoral systems, structures, and processes used in the 2023 multi-tier elections, as well as earlier elections.
* The Committee was expected to be set up within one month after the agreement and complete its work within six months.
* Implementation of an Inter-Party Dialogue framework to foster continuous political engagement, avoid boycotts, improve trust among parties, and promote inclusivity.
Goals & Motivations
* To resolve the political impasse between SLPP and APC arising after the disputed or contested outcome of the 2023 elections.
* To build confidence in the electoral system through reforms: greater transparency, accountability, and credibility in future polls.
* To promote national cohesion, peace, and stability by ensuring that opposition parties are included in governance, reducing polarization.
Progress & Challenges
* The Tripartite Committee identified 86 critical issues relevant to electoral disputes and produced 169 recommendations for reform.
* Some reforms are underway: functional reviews of electoral management bodies (Electoral Commission, Political Parties Registration Commission), broadcasting regulations, legal reforms, etc.
* There have been clarifications of what the Committee cannot do: for example, it does not have authority to overturn the 2023 election results or to order a rerun.
