In a significant announcement, the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) has disclosed the results of the Paramount Chief Member of Parliament (PCMP) by-elections in the Pujehun and Kenema Districts. The announcement, made by Chief Electoral Commissioner Mohamed Konneh, is in accordance with the constitutional provisions outlined in Sections 33, 72, and 74(1)(a) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone 1991, as well as Sections 62 and 63(b) of the Public Elections Act, 2022.

The by-elections, held on March 20th and 21st, 2024, garnered significant attention as communities in the Eastern Region, Kenema District, and Southern Region, Pujehun District, exercised their democratic rights in selecting their representatives.

Chief Electoral Commissioner Konneh provided insight into the nomination process, noting that in the Pujehun District, only one candidate, P.C. Saffa Moyna Tamu of Makpele Chiefdom, successfully completed the nomination process for the PCMP by-election. In contrast, in the Kenema District, two candidates initially participated in the nomination process. However, one candidate later withdrew, leaving P.C. Alameen Kanneh of Koya Chiefdom as the sole contender.

As per the provisions of the Sierra Leone Constitution and the Public Elections Act, Chief Electoral Commissioner Konneh declared both P.C. Alameen Janneh and P.C. Saffa Moyna Taimu duly elected Paramount Chief Members of Parliament for the Kenema and Pujehun Districts, respectively. Their uncontested victories underscored the confidence placed in them by their respective communities and mark the beginning of their tenure in office.

The announcement concluded with Chief Electoral Commissioner Konneh extending his best wishes to the elected Paramount Chief Members of Parliament, expressing hope for their successful tenure and effective representation of their constituents.

This announcement signifies a crucial moment in Sierra Leone's democratic process, as communities participate in the electoral process to ensure effective governance and representation at the grassroots level. As the newly elected Paramount Chief Members of Parliament assume their responsibilities, they carry the aspirations and expectations of their communities, promising to serve with diligence and integrity.

The ECSL's commitment to upholding democratic principles and facilitating transparent elections underscores its vital role in strengthening Sierra Leone's democratic institutions. Moving forward, the results of these by-elections will shape the political landscape of the Pujehun and Kenema Districts, contributing to the ongoing development and progress of the nation as a whole.