In a shocking turn of events on the evening of Thursday, December 21, 2023,
The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has issued a press statement regretfully announcing the complete destruction of its sub office in Karene District, situated in Gbinti Township.
The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, December 21, 2023,
The ECSL reports that the catastrophe unfolded around 8 p.m., attributing the incident to an electrical fault triggered when power was activated in the township. Disturbingly, the inferno engulfed the sub office, leaving it in ruins.
A preliminary report received at the ECSL Headquarters reveals that the fire has obliterated crucial electoral materials stored in the district office. The loss of these materials poses a significant challenge for the electoral process in the region.
“The incident has been reported to the Police, and we have initiated an internal investigation to ascertain the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage,” states the ECSL in its press release.
The commission assures the public that the findings of the investigation will be promptly communicated once concluded.
Despite the devastating blow, the ECSL emphasizes a silver lining in the midst of this crisis – all staff at the sub office are reported to be safe, with no injuries or fatalities.
The ECSL expresses gratitude for the safety of its personnel while facing the daunting task of recovering from this unforeseen disaster.