The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has relieved Dr. Prince Alex Harding of his duties as Returning Officer for the party’s Southern Regional Executive Elections following serious allegations of electoral malpractice and partiality.
Dr. Harding, who also serves as the SLPP National Chairman, was overseeing the regional polls in Bo when tensions erupted after he reportedly nullified 61 votes already cast for the position of Financial Secretary.
The decision sparked uproar among delegates and plunged the election process into chaos, effectively bringing proceedings to a halt.
Eyewitness accounts suggest Dr. Harding was allegedly backing a preferred slate of candidates, contrary to the will of several delegates who accused him of manipulating the process. The situation escalated into confusion, forcing an abrupt suspension of the voting exercise.
In response, the party leadership has appointed a new four-man committee, headed by Ismatu Sidibay Sesay, to take over the conduct of the remaining elections.
In a public notice, SLPP Secretary General Umaru Napoleon Koroma called for calm and encouraged delegates to return to the venue in Bo to complete the elections today, 20th June 2025.
He emphasized the party’s commitment to transparency and urged all members to exercise their democratic rights freely and fairly.
The SLPP’s internal elections are critical as the party gears up to strengthen its regional structures ahead of future national contests.
