By Alhaji Turay
On January 5, 2025, the Eastern Family in the eastern part of Freetown, convened a crucial meeting at the Bamba Ridge community (Moeba) to rally stakeholders and youths in support of electoral justice and accountability. The gathering sought to address human rights violations and electoral offences arising from the 2023 elections, while advocating for a peaceful and accountable electoral process.
The meeting emphasized the importance of resolving election-related complaints swiftly and fairly, ensuring accountability for violations, and strengthening dispute resolution mechanisms.
The call for electoral justice gained momentum, following the leadership of Dr. Samura Kamara, the Sierra Leonean main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) Presidential candidate in the June 24, 2023, multi-tier elections. Dr. Kamara has consistently urged Sierra Leoneans to support the fight for electoral justice. His efforts have garnered significant backing from party members and allied organizations, leading to renewed demands for justice in the electoral process.
The chairman of the Electoral Justice Campaign stated, “When public election laws are breached, those responsible for enforcing or interpreting the law must act with fairness, professionalism, and reasonable speed. This is the only way to reduce election-related violence and restore public trust in the process.”
He further emphasized the grassroots’ role in driving change, stating that they are the party’s foundation and have the final say.
Former Ward 419 Councillor, Abu Turay, echoed this sentiment, reiterating support for Dr. Samura Kamara and affirming that the APC belongs to the grassroots, not just the executive. He warned that any executive member not committed to electoral justice would face resistance during future national delegates conferences.
Comrade Musa, Secretary for the Eastern District, stressed the importance of prioritizing the 2023 elections over planning for 2028, urging stakeholders to focus on electoral justice.
Miss Kadiatu Sesay, Chairlady of the Eastern Family and a representative of the Bamba Ridge community, voiced her opposition to the “Agenda 2028” narrative, reaffirming support for Dr. Samura Kamara and the fight for electoral justice.
Honorable Addiessa Kamara of Constituency 120 called on APC supporters, sympathizers, and all Sierra Leoneans to join the fight for electoral justice. She highlighted the ongoing financial and economic crises in the country and the lack of adequate international support. She urged collaboration between Sierra Leoneans and development partners to implement electoral justice effectively.
Councillor Solomon K. Kamara, popularly known as “Mamawo,” who chaired the meeting, reaffirmed the importance of restoring democracy in Sierra Leone. He called on all Sierra Leoneans, including APC executives, to unite in the fight for electoral justice.
The Eastern Family’s call to action underscores the urgency of addressing electoral grievances to ensure a fair and democratic future for Sierra Leone.