ECSL Hosts ECONEC Mission on Electoral Reform Ahead of 2028 Polls

The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) is hosting a five-day post-election follow-up and needs assessment mission by the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC) from 21 to 25 September 2026.

The engagements are taking place at the ECSL headquarters on OAU Drive, Tower Hill, Freetown, and will bring the commission together with the visiting regional delegation and other key national stakeholders.

Reviewing election recommendations

According to an ECSL press release, the mission will include technical and strategic discussions focused on the country’s electoral process and preparations for the 2028 general elections.

One of the central areas of the assessment is progress in implementing recommendations contained in election observation reports issued by ECOWAS and the African Union, as well as recommendations from the Tripartite Committee.

The recommendations followed Sierra Leone’s 2023 general elections. Their implementation remains relevant to ongoing electoral reforms and planning for the next general elections, according to the information provided by ECSL.

Identifying challenges and support needs

The mission will also examine continuing challenges, risks and gaps within the electoral process. Its assessment is expected to help determine the technical, logistical and capacity-building support required by national stakeholders ahead of the 2028 elections.

ECSL said the visit is intended to function as a peer-review and assessment exercise. The commission also described it as reflecting a shared regional commitment to strengthening transparent, resilient and credible electoral management systems.

ECONEC is a regional network made up of election management bodies from ECOWAS member states. Its engagement with ECSL forms part of broader regional efforts to support electoral institutions and strengthen democratic processes.

The commission has not provided details of the delegation’s membership or a full schedule for the stakeholder engagements. Specific findings and recommendations from the five-day assessment are also yet to be stated.