The Minister of Youth Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Sannoh, has emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and youth participation in Sierra Leone’s democratic and governance processes. He made this statement while addressing participants at the Stakeholder Validation Workshop for the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) Inclusion Policy, held on Thursday, 13th November 2025, in Freetown.
The event, organized by the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) in partnership with International IDEA and funded by the European Union, brought together key national stakeholders, including government ministries, civil society organizations, development partners, and political actors. The validation aims to finalize ECSL’s Inclusion Policy, a landmark framework designed to ensure that all citizens, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities, are meaningfully represented and empowered in the electoral process.
In his statement, Minister Sannoh commended the ECSL and its partners for developing such a transformative policy that directly aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of inclusive governance and human capital development.
*“Inclusion is not just a policy statement, it is a moral and democratic responsibility,”* Minister Sannoh asserted.
*“Our democracy grows stronger when every citizen, regardless of background, disability, or social status, feels represented. The youth of this country constitute the largest demographic force, and it is imperative that their voices are not only heard but also integrated into national decision-making processes.”*
He further highlighted that the Ministry of Youth Affairs continues to champion programs and partnerships that strengthen the participation of young people in governance, employment creation, and social development. According to the Minister, the ECSL’s Inclusion Policy will play a pivotal role in enhancing civic engagement and political accountability among young people.
The event featured opening statements from key partners including Dr. Idrissa Mamoud Tarawallie (Head of Country Programme, International IDEA), Emilio Rossetti (Head of Political Section, European Union), and other distinguished dignitaries.
Commissioner Zainab Umu Moseray, who delivered the Chairperson’s opening remarks, described the validation as a milestone toward building a fairer and more participatory electoral environment. She expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their contributions in shaping the Inclusion Policy.
The workshop concluded with renewed commitments from development partners, government representatives, and civil society to ensure that the policy translates into practical outcomes for electoral inclusion ahead of future national elections.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 19th November 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
