The political agreement between the ruling SLPP and the main opposition APC has been hailed as a major turning point in resolving Sierra Leone’s post-election crisis. After several months of tension and blockage, the two political parties finally found common ground thanks to the mediation of the Commonwealth, the African Union and ECOWAS.
This agreement represents a victory for the people of Sierra Leone who have been the main beneficiaries of this national dialogue. The team of mediators, led by former Gambian Vice President Fatoumata Jallow Tambajang, played a crucial role in facilitating the negotiations and were praised for their motherly and caring approach.
During the three days of discussions, the sticking points raised by the opposition were examined in detail. However, some sensitive topics, such as the lack of transparency in the elections and the bias of the electoral commission, were not included in the final agreement. This omission risks disappointing the base of the APC which had requested a new election and the publication of the results of all polling stations.
Despite the differences, this agreement marks a significant step forward towards national unity and political reconciliation. President Julius Maada Bio and opposition leader Samura Kamara have both acknowledged the APC’s demands, including one calling for the resignation of all electoral commission commissioners. However, it remains to be seen whether these announcements will be mentioned in President Bio’s upcoming speech on national cohesion.
Finally, the SLPP urges all political actors and Sierra Leoneans to accept this national unity agreement and continue to maintain peace. With this agreement, the APC will end its boycott of parliament and local councils, allowing political life in the country to return to normal.
This political agreement in Sierra Leone represents real progress towards political stability and the consolidation of democracy. It brings hope for the future of the country, emphasizing dialogue and the peaceful resolution of disputes. However, there is still a long way to go, but with a deep commitment to democracy and justice, Sierra Leone has every chance of overcoming its challenges and moving towards a better future.