By Josephine Sesay
The Presidential Press Secretary, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi, has publicly criticised the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) for issuing a 48-hour ultimatum over the appointment of Edmond S. Alpha as substantive Chief Electoral Commissioner.
In a public commentary dated February 26, 2026, Sandi defended President Julius Maada Bio, stating that the nomination was made in accordance with the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone. He noted that the appointment is subject to parliamentary approval and followed consultations with registered political parties, as required by law.
According to Sandi, 12 of the country’s 14 registered political parties endorsed Alpha’s nomination during the consultation process. The APC, however, rejected the appointment despite participating in the consultations.
The opposition party has argued that the decision contravenes the Agreement for National Unity and the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee. It subsequently threatened to withdraw its elected officials from Parliament, local councils, and other governance structures if its concerns were not addressed within 48 hours.
Responding to the APC’s claims, Sandi maintained that the Agreement for National Unity affirms the supremacy of the Constitution and does not override constitutional provisions governing presidential appointments. He cited Section 171(14) of the Constitution, which requires consultation but does not bind the President to the advice or approval of any political party.
Sandi also criticised the APC’s boycott of Alpha’s parliamentary interview, stating that while the absence of its members did not invalidate the proceedings, it limited their participation at a critical stage of the approval process.
On the proposed constitutional amendment currently before Parliament, an issue raised by some critics who argue that the amendment should precede such an appointment—the Press Secretary described the argument as political rather than legal. He emphasised that until any amendment is formally enacted and comes into force, the existing constitutional provisions remain operative.
The Press Secretary further stressed the importance of stable leadership at the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), particularly as the country prepares for the next general elections, scheduled for just over two years. He warned that prolonging an acting appointment could affect institutional readiness and public confidence in the electoral process.
Concluding his remarks, Sandi urged the APC to pursue its grievances through constitutional and parliamentary channels rather than ultimatums or boycotts, emphasising that adherence to lawful procedures is essential to maintaining national stability and democratic governance.
As of press time, the APC had not issued a further response to the Press Secretary’s latest comments.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 4th March 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
