Candidates in Simiria Paramount Chieftaincy Election Seek Injunction Amid Allegations of Illegal House Imposition
Controversy surrounds the upcoming Simiria Paramount Chieftaincy Election, as candidates raise concerns over the alleged imposition of a candidate from an illegal chieftaincy house by the Provincial Secretary. With the elections scheduled to take place in Mabonto, Tonkolili District on Saturday, 8th June 2024, the candidates have sought an injunction to halt the process due to unresolved issues stemming from previous election discrepancies.
Tensions are escalating ahead of the Simiria Paramount Chieftaincy Election, as candidates contesting for the esteemed position voice their grievances against the prospective imposition of a candidate, allegedly not hailing from a legitimate ruling house. The Provincial Secretary’s purported move to endorse a controversial candidate has sparked uproar among the aspirants, prompting Alimamy Mambo Bangura, a prominent contestant running as the People’s choice, calling for an injunction to suspend the electoral proceedings until the issues are adequately addressed.
The simmering discontent among the candidates stems from past electoral discrepancies and contentious incidents that have marred the credibility and integrity of the chieftaincy election process in Simiria. Bangura highlighted several instances dating back to 2019, where irregularities and procedural lapses resulted in the cancellation of the polls, due to the absence of a legitimate ballot box held by an individual identified as Biankay Sorie Kaira Bangura. Despite the recurring deficiencies in the electoral process, subsequent attempts to rectify the situation in 2022 and 2023 were met with similar challenges, leading to inconclusive outcomes and complaints raised with the Ministry of Local Government.
One of the key allegations put forth by the aggrieved candidates revolves around the conduct and influence of the Provincial Secretary, who is accused of advocating for the controversial candidate, Biankay Bangura, despite his purported ineligibility and contentious standing within the tribal hierarchy. Bangura emphasized the significance of upholding traditional norms and chieftaincy protocols, particularly concerning the legitimacy of ruling houses and the adherence to established lineage criteria in selecting candidates for Paramount Chieftaincy positions.
Expressing dismay over the escalating tensions and uncertainties surrounding the electoral process, candidates underscored the need for transparent, fair, and impartial procedures that uphold the sanctity of the Chieftaincy institution in Simiria. The candidates’ call for the intervention of relevant stakeholders, including the government and traditional authorities, aimed at safeguard the integrity of the electoral process, mitigate potential conflicts, and ensure a peaceful and legitimate transition of leadership within the Paramount Chieftaincy.
The candidates further referenced the regulatory framework governing Chieftaincy elections, citing provisions outlined in the 1961 regulations that stipulate the exclusion of ruling houses established after the specified timeline. The introduction of purportedly new ruling houses, which lack historical precedence and authenticity predating 1961, has raised significant concerns regarding the compliance with traditional norms, customary practices, and legal requirements governing Chieftaincy accession processes.
Amid mounting tensions and uncertainties surrounding the Simiria Paramount Chieftaincy Election, the affected candidates reiterated their commitment to upholding the principles of fairness, equity, and transparency in the electoral process. By seeking legal remedies and appealing to the conscience of relevant stakeholders, the candidates strive to address the underlying issues, rectify past grievances, and pave the way for a credible and inclusive election that reflects the will of the community and adheres to established Chieftaincy traditions.
As the controversy unfolds and the specter of electoral improprieties looms large over the impending chieftaincy election in Simiria, the collective efforts of the candidates, traditional authorities, government officials, and civil society actors are imperative in restoring trust, legitimacy, and accountability to the electoral process. The quest for justice, adherence to established norms, and the pursuit of a lawful and orderly transition of leadership, underscore the significance of upholding democratic principles, respecting cultural heritage, and fostering unity and harmony within the Simiria community during this critical juncture in its Chieftaincy history.