President Julius Maada Bio has commenced formal consultations with leaders of registered political parties over his intention to appoint Mr. Edmond Sylvester Alpha as the substantive Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL).
The move is in accordance with Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution, which requires the President to consult all registered political party leaders before appointing members of the Electoral Commission, subject to approval by Parliament.
In a letter issued by the Secretary to the President, Baba B. Fortune, political parties have been asked to submit their views on the proposed appointment within three working days of receiving the correspondence.
The consultation process forms part of the constitutional procedure aimed at promoting transparency and inclusivity in the selection of key electoral officials.
The Electoral Commission plays a central role in managing and supervising public elections, making the position of Chief Electoral Commissioner critical to the country’s democratic governance.
Mr. Alpha has been serving as Acting Chairman and Chief Electoral Commissioner since July 21, 2025, following the expiration of his predecessor’s tenure. Prior to that, he held the position of Electoral Commissioner for the Southern Region, where he oversaw electoral activities in one of Sierra Leone’s politically significant regions.
His acting appointment was later ratified on July 29, 2025. If Parliament confirms his nomination, Mr. Alpha will officially assume leadership of the Commission on a substantive basis.
