By Lemuella Tarawallie
Parliament has approved the appointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner despite the absence of Members of Parliament from the All People’s Congress (APC), who refused to participate in the approval process.
During the debate, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, defended the process, stating that the appointment followed the provisions of the 1991 Constitution. He explained that the President is empowered to appoint Electoral Commissioners after consultation with political party leaders, subject to parliamentary approval.
Hon. Conteh said consultations were conducted and emphasized that Parliament’s decisions remain valid as long as the constitutional quorum is met, even if some members choose not to participate.
Deputy Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, described the APC’s absence as inconsistent political conduct. He recalled that when the SLPP had concerns about electoral outcomes in the past, the party chose legal and constitutional means rather than boycotting Parliament.
Leader of Government Business, Hon. Matthew Sahr Nyuma, also supported the nomination, stating that the appointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha by President Julius Maada Bio is grounded in the Constitution and the Public Elections Act 2022. He noted that 13 out of 17 registered political parties supported the nomination and described Alpha as experienced, having already served in an acting capacity.
Other Members of Parliament, including Hon. Mohammed Bangura and Hon. P.C. Desmond Maheyei Kargbobai, urged fairness and professionalism in the conduct of future elections, stressing the importance of dialogue, national unity and credible electoral management.
Parliament subsequently adopted the report of the Committee on Appointments and the Public Service, confirming Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner.
