Civil Society Coalition Condemns Parliament’s Mischaracterization of NEW
A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has strongly condemned what it describes as misinformation and mischaracterisation of the National Election Watch (NEW) and its leadership, following remarks made during recent parliamentary proceedings.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, the coalition expressed “grave concern” over comments attributed to the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, during the confirmation and approval process of the Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone.
According to the statement, NEW’s leadership — including its Strategic Management Committee, regional and district coordinators, and partners — voiced deep disappointment over assertions suggesting that election observers were attempting to fuel conflict in the country. The coalition also rejected claims that NEW lacks credibility or identifiable leadership.
The CSOs described the remarks as “clearly aimed at discrediting NEW, its leadership, and its over 400 constituent member organisations,” adding that such statements risk undermining the critical role domestic election observers play in safeguarding electoral integrity.
Rejection of Misinformation
The coalition categorically dismissed what it termed misinformation regarding NEW’s role in electoral observation, governance structures, and internal accountability mechanisms.
NEW, the statement noted, has contributed significantly to peaceful electoral processes in Sierra Leone since 2002. Its activities include voter education, Parallel Vote Tabulation (PVT), and independent monitoring of electoral cycle processes across the country.
“The effectiveness and legitimacy of NEW are evident in its successful monitoring and observation of general elections since 2002,” the statement emphasized, attributing this success to its broad and active nationwide membership.
Call for Collaboration, Not Division
The CSOs stressed that both local and international election observers remain essential partners in the electoral process. They warned that portraying NEW and its partners as adversaries to the Electoral Commission could strain working relationships and weaken public trust in democratic institutions.
The statement further pointed out that Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh has previously participated in NEW’s activities and engaged with its membership nationwide, making the recent comments particularly concerning.
Commitment to 2028 Elections
Looking ahead to the 2028 general elections, the coalition reaffirmed NEW’s commitment to working collaboratively with all electoral management bodies in accordance with the law.
Describing NEW as Sierra Leone’s foremost nationally and internationally recognised coalition of independent domestic election observers, the CSOs highlighted its leadership role in regional and global election observer networks and its participation in international expert observer missions across Africa.
The coalition concluded by reiterating its resolve to continue promoting transparency, accountability, and peaceful democratic processes in Sierra Leone.
