APC and Government Reach Agreement for Post-Election Conflict Resolution

The main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party and the Government of Sierra Leone have reached an historic agreement to resolve the post-election conflict in the country. This conflict had been looming since the declaration of President Bio as the winner of the June 24,  presidential election and posed a significant threat to the country.

The APC was represented by Dr. Samura Kamara, the party’s presidential candidate, and the government was represented by Dr. David Sengeh, the country’s Chief Minister. The signed agreement, however, does not include provisions for a re-run of the elections or the publication of all polling station results, as previously demanded by the APC. This omission is likely to evoke dissatisfaction among APC supporters.

While the agreement acknowledges some of the APC’s demands, such as the resignation of the Chief Electoral Commissioner and all regional Commissioners, it remains uncertain whether these changes will be implemented soon by President Bio.

Among the key agreements reached between the APC and the government is the resolution to backpay salaries and compensate for financial losses suffered by elected APC members of parliament, councillors, mayors, and council chairpersons who had boycotted governance.

In exchange for the government’s acceptance of the APC’s demands outlined in the agreement, all elected APC politicians have committed to returning to parliament and local councils.

Commenting on today’s resolutions, the US Embassy in Sierra Leone commended the Government of Sierra Leone and the All People’s Congress Party for their leadership and courage in signing the Agreement for National Unity. The embassy acknowledged the crucial role played by mediators from the African Union, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Economic Community of West African States in bridging differences and advancing dialogue.

The embassy emphasized that this landmark agreement represents a critical step in Sierra Leone’s democratic journey. It appreciated the decision of the APC leadership to resume their elected positions, ensuring a robust opposition voice in national and local government institutions.

The agreement also includes the formation of a commission to review the conduct and results of the June 2023 multi-tier elections. The US Embassy sees this as an important opportunity to address longstanding institutional challenges to free, fair, and credible elections.

The embassy applauded the decision to establish a joint, inclusive leadership for the commission, focusing on both the results tabulation process and the conduct of the Election Commission of Sierra Leone. It expressed readiness to support the commission’s work, urging all parties to ensure the rapid and full implementation of the Agreement on National Unity.

Recognizing that this agreement is just the first step in rebuilding trust, promoting national cohesion, and strengthening democracy in Sierra Leone, the embassy urged leaders of all political parties to work together and implement the agreement in both letter and spirit.