The Sierra Leoneans Lives Matter Global (SLAM-Global) has issued a scathing critique of the country’s democratic process, warning that citizens’ voices have been systematically silenced and public trust betrayed.
“Sierra Leone democracy was fractured, Sierra Leone voices silenced, and hope betrayed,” the advocacy group declared in a statement released dated Monday 15th September, 2025.
SLAM-Global, a leading civil society organization that campaigns for electoral integrity and government accountability, expressed alarm over what it called the erosion of democratic norms in Sierra Leone.
The statement comes amid mounting political unrest aAdd Postnd growing dissatisfaction with both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC).
Central to SLAM’s criticism is the June 24, 2023 general election, which the organization says remains mired in controversy.
According to SLAM, irregularities reported by international observers, including the Carter Center and the European Union, were never adequately addressed, leaving the legitimacy of the vote in doubt. The group dismissed attempts by political parties to reshuffle leadership or stage internal reforms as “political theatre” that fails to restore public trust.
SLAM also highlighted worsening socio-economic conditions in the country, pointing to widespread poverty, high unemployment, and inadequate public services. “When democracy fails to protect the rights and welfare of its citizens, hope is betrayed,” the statement read in part.
The advocacy group is calling on the government and all political actors to prioritize electoral justice, transparency, and accountability.
Specifically, SLAM urges the establishment of a fully independent inquiry into the disputed 2023 elections and immediate measures to safeguard citizens’ democratic rights.
“The people of Sierra Leone deserve more than empty promises and political theatre they deserve justice, dignity, and hope restored,” SLAM emphasized, warning that failure to act could deepen political instability and further erode democratic governance.