NEW Chairperson Calls for Strong Partnership with ECSL to Advance Electoral Reforms
The newly elected Chairperson of the National Elections Watch (NEW), Charles Keif Kobai, has reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working closely with the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to promote progressive electoral reforms and strengthen the country’s democratic framework.
Speaking on the future direction of the organization, Kobai emphasized the importance of collaboration between election stakeholders to ensure that necessary amendments to Sierra Leone’s electoral laws are implemented in line with regional and international best practices.
“We will work in partnership with ECSL to lobby Parliament to pass the new electoral laws that will be in line with ECOWAS requirements,” he stated.
According to the NEW Chairperson, electoral reforms remain critical to enhancing transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the country’s democratic processes. He noted that many of the recommendations advanced by National Elections Watch have already been captured in the Tripartite Committee Report, providing a solid foundation for future legislative reforms.
Kobai explained that the organization intends to engage constructively with key institutions, including ECSL, Parliament, civil society organizations, and development partners, to ensure that the proposed amendments are translated into law before future elections.
He further stressed that aligning Sierra Leone’s electoral framework with ECOWAS standards would not only strengthen electoral credibility but also reinforce the country’s commitment to democratic governance and constitutional order.
The NEW Chairperson maintained that electoral reform should be viewed as a national priority rather than a partisan issue, noting that an effective and inclusive electoral system benefits all citizens regardless of political affiliation. He called on all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at modernizing the electoral legal framework and addressing gaps identified during previous elections.
Kobai also reaffirmed National Elections Watch’s role as an independent election observation body committed to promoting free, fair, peaceful, and credible elections. He said the organization would continue to provide evidence-based recommendations and advocate for reforms that enhance electoral integrity and public trust.
As Sierra Leone continues discussions on implementing recommendations emerging from the Tripartite process, the newly elected NEW leadership believes that stronger collaboration among electoral institutions will be essential in delivering reforms capable of strengthening democracy and ensuring future elections meet both national aspirations and regional standards.
