Sierra Leone’s Parliament has initiated steps to investigate the operations of the National Elections Watch (NEW), marking a significant development in the country’s governance and electoral accountability landscape.
Lawmakers on Tuesday approved a motion calling for a formal inquiry into the organization, widely regarded as the country’s leading independent elections watchdog.
The motion, moved by Hon. Mustapha M. Sellu and seconded by Hon. Ambrose M. Lebby, seeks to establish a parliamentary committee to scrutinize NEW’s operations. The proposed investigation will examine the organization’s financial flows, funding sources, expenditures, and overall accountability mechanisms.
During the debate, members of the ruling party overwhelmingly backed the motion, underscoring the need for transparency and oversight. However, Hon. Mohamed Bangura voiced dissent, urging the Speaker to suspend the formation of the investigative committee.
Following the motion’s passage, the Honourable Speaker clarified that he does not possess the authority to overturn or halt a duly adopted private member’s motion. Nonetheless, he ruled that the establishment of the proposed investigative committee would be suspended until further notice, citing the sensitive nature of the matter and the need for careful consideration.
The National Elections Watch has yet to issue an official response to the development.
