The current Mayor of the Freetown Municipality and an aspirant for the flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC) party in the coming August 2026 National Delegates’ Convention, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, has stated that the party’s pathway to regain power and governance of the country hinges solidly on the reversal of the appointment of the Edmund Alpha as the country’s Chief Electoral Commissioner and the fixing of the agreed upon electoral systems.

Speaking during a recent public engagement, Aki-Sawyerr expressed concerns over the credibility and independence of the electoral management system in Sierra Leone, emphasizing that restoring confidence in the country’s electoral process is critical for strengthening democracy and ensuring fair political competition.

According to her, the appointment of the current Chief Electoral Commissioner has been a major point of contention for the APC and many of its supporters, who believe that the process surrounding the appointment raises questions about neutrality and transparency within the country’s electoral framework.

Mayor Aki-Sawyerr argued that credible elections remain the foundation of any democratic society and that public trust in the electoral system must not be compromised. She noted that when electoral institutions are perceived to be politically influenced, it undermines confidence in election outcomes and weakens democratic governance.

“The return of the APC to governance depends on restoring trust in the electoral process, and one of the key steps toward achieving that is the reversal of the appointment of the Chief Electoral Commissioner,” she said, stressing that such a move would help rebuild public confidence and demonstrate a commitment to fairness and accountability.

Her remarks come amid ongoing political debates in the country following the 2023 general elections, which saw heightened tensions between the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition APC. The elections sparked disputes over results, transparency, and the conduct of the electoral process, issues that have continued to dominate national political discourse.

The Freetown Mayor maintained that for democracy to flourish in Sierra Leone, electoral institutions must not only be independent but must also be widely perceived as impartial by all political actors and the general public. She emphasized that strengthening democratic institutions requires reforms that guarantee transparency and fairness in the management of elections.

Aki-Sawyerr further noted that the APC remains committed to democratic engagement and peaceful political participation, but insisted that the party will continue to advocate for reforms that ensure a level playing field for all political parties.

She also called on stakeholders, including civil society organizations, political leaders, and the international community, to support efforts aimed at reinforcing the integrity of the country’s democratic institutions.

According to her, addressing concerns about the electoral management body is essential for promoting national stability and political inclusiveness.

Political analysts say the debate over the appointment of the Chief Electoral Commissioner reflects broader concerns about governance, accountability, and the credibility of democratic processes in Sierra Leone. Many observers argue that sustained dialogue and institutional reforms will be necessary to bridge political divides and strengthen public trust in state institutions.

Despite the political disagreements, Aki-Sawyerr reiterated the need for constructive engagement among political actors in the interest of national development. She stressed that Sierra Leone’s democratic future depends on transparent governance, strong institutions, and the active participation of citizens in shaping the country’s political direction.

As discussions continue around electoral reforms and political accountability, her remarks are likely to further intensify the national conversation on how Sierra Leone can strengthen its democratic processes and ensure that elections reflect the genuine will of the people.