In an exclusive interview with Sierraeye Magazine, Dr. Samura Kamara, the primary candidate of the main opposition party in Sierra Leone's upcoming presidential elections, raised concerns about the reliability of the country's election management bodies, particularly the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL). Dr. Kamara emphasized the necessity of transparency and verification to instill trust and confidence among the electorate.
Quoting a famous statement by an American statesman, Dr. Kamara stated, "Trust but verify," highlighting the direct correlation between trust and the level of verifications conducted. The opposition candidate specifically identified several areas where he sought verifications, including the voter ID cards, recruitment of election staff, and the publication of a detailed voter register.
However, the ECSL has been reluctant to provide the required information, eroding trust and confidence in the commission. Dr. Kamara expressed disappointment in the dismissive and unresponsive attitude of the Commission towards the concerns raised by the opposition party. He stressed that trust cannot be established without deliberate actions and open communication.
Despite the challenges faced, Dr. Kamara reassured the public that his party remains committed to the electoral process and will remain vigilant to prevent the theft of the people's mandate.
During the interview, Sierraeye, the news outlet conducting the interview, questioned Dr. Kamara about his willingness to accept the election results and congratulate the winner if he is not successful. In response, Dr. Kamara stated that although the question was hypothetical, he firmly believed that everyone would accept the outcome of free, fair, peaceful, inclusive, and credible elections.
He expressed confidence in his own candidacy but maintained that if his opponent genuinely secures the people's will, he would accept the decision and congratulate the winner. The opposition candidate emphasized the importance of a peaceful transition of power and urged his opponents to adopt a similar stance. Dr. Kamara expects his rivals to acknowledge the genuine mandate of the people and congratulate him if he emerges as the winner. In doing so, he emphasized the need to uphold democratic principles and ensure a smooth and inclusive electoral process.
As the presidential elections in Sierra Leone approach on June 24, Dr Samura Kamara's remarks regarding the trustworthiness of the Electoral Commission have ignited a debate on the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. With the opposition party remaining vigilant and determined to safeguard what they consider the people's mandate, the country eagerly awaits the election outcome, hoping for a free and fair process that truly reflects the will of the Sierra Leonean people.