Yesterday, on 8 June 2023, Freetown hosted a significant stakeholders' dialogue conference on election preparedness. This conference served as a crucial step for the upcoming general elections scheduled for 24 June 2023, aiming to update electoral stakeholders on the level of preparedness and ensure a peaceful and successful electoral process.
Mr Abdulai Caulker, the National Security Coordinator, took the stage during the conference to provide stakeholders with a briefing on the security sector's readiness to establish a fair playing field for all political parties involved. He reassured the audience of the Security Sector's commitment to facilitating smooth political activities. Mr Caulker also disclosed that the Integrated Elections Security Planning Committee (IESPC) had been activated and had conducted a comprehensive assessment of national election threats and district risk mapping.
Based on the findings, three essential election security documents have been developed and are currently being implemented. Additionally, the National Situation Room, operating on a Toll-Free Line (119) and supported by the IESPC Secretariat, Incident Command Centers, and Forward Control Points, has been fully activated to provide assistance throughout the electoral processes.
In a collaborative effort among security sector agencies, Mr Caulker recently led a delegation from the National Security Council Coordinating Group (NSCCG) in joint meetings with decentralized security structures at the provincial level. These meetings aimed to foster cooperation and build trust in the delivery of security services. Productive engagements have occurred between the Security Sector and various political parties to address concerns and establish a shared understanding of the electoral process.
One immediate security threat faced by the Security Sector is the misuse of social media and the spread of toxic incitements by politicians. To counteract this challenge, a Security Sector Communication Strategy has been developed to debunk false rumours and disseminate accurate information.
Despite these challenges, the NSCoord emphasized the Security Sector's preparedness to provide necessary security arrangements for the upcoming general elections. He issued a stern warning to the general public and politicians, urging them to refrain from engaging in violence or making provocative statements that could undermine the democratic process.
In conclusion, Mr Caulker pledged that the Security Sector would continue to create a favorable environment for the upcoming elections, ensuring they are conducted democratically and inclusively.