By VOS Writer
A coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) has strongly condemned recent remarks made in Parliament by the Deputy Speaker, accusing the National Election Watch (NEW) of fueling conflict and lacking credibility.
The reaction follows comments reportedly made during a parliamentary session in which the Deputy Speaker questioned the integrity and motives of National Election Watch. He allegedly suggested that the election monitoring body had received foreign funding to destabilize the country and undermine public confidence in electoral processes.
In a joint press release issued on 1st March 2026, the coalition described the allegations as “unfounded, inflammatory, and potentially damaging to democratic governance.” The group emphasized that NEW has played a pivotal role in promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in Sierra Leone’s electoral landscape over the years.
“National Election Watch has consistently demonstrated professionalism and commitment to peaceful democratic processes,” the statement read. “Accusations that it fuels conflict are not only misleading but risk eroding public trust in independent institutions that safeguard electoral integrity.”
The coalition further noted that election observation missions, both local and international, are globally recognized as essential components of credible democratic systems. According to the CSOs, attempts to discredit such institutions without substantiated evidence could weaken public confidence and heighten political tensions.
The organisations also called on Members of Parliament to exercise caution and responsibility in their public pronouncements, particularly on matters relating to national stability and democratic governance. They urged Parliament to engage constructively with civil society actors rather than cast aspersions that could further polarize the political environment.
Reaffirming their solidarity with NEW, the coalition pledged continued support for independent civic engagement and electoral transparency initiatives across the country. They stressed that safeguarding democratic space requires collaboration among state institutions, political actors, and civil society—not confrontation.
The statement concluded with a call for dialogue, accountability, and respect for the rule of law as Sierra Leone continues its efforts to strengthen democratic institutions.
