As Sierra Leone prepares for its upcoming elections on June 24th, there is a pressing need for free, fair, and credible elections. Dr Alhaji U Njai, a Sierra Leonean scientist, highlights the critical importance of these factors in maintaining peace, legitimacy, and national cohesion.
It is not enough to simply call for peaceful elections; we must also ensure that the election process is transparent and fair. The Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) has a moral duty to be an independent arbitrator of the elections and conduct transparent, fair, and credible elections.
But the responsibility does not solely rest on the ECSL. As citizens of Sierra Leone, we have a moral obligation to vote and to be peaceful and tolerant of one another during the election process. Our duty to hold our elected representatives accountable for development extends beyond the June 24th elections, and this social contract between citizens and officials is fundamental to a healthy democracy.
Ultimately, a healthy democracy requires the active participation of all citizens. We must hold our elected officials accountable for their actions and work together to create a society that is fair, just, and equitable for all. With free, fair, and credible elections and a commitment to empowering marginalized communities, we can build a stronger and more resilient Sierra Leone.
Read his post below
Free, Fair, Credible Elections AND Peaceful Elections June 24th in Sierra Leone are NOT MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE. Infact, They Go Together. A free, fair, and credible election is critical to maintaining peace, legitimacy, and national cohesion. Making videos calling for peaceful elections must also be accompanied or preceded with calling for free, fair, and credible elections. ECSL has a moral duty to be an independent arbitrator of the elections and a Moral obligation to conduct transparent, fair and credible elections. We the citizens of Sierra Leone have a moral duty to vote, though voting is not an obligation. We are, however, morally obliged to be peaceful and tolerant of one another during elections. Our moral obligation as citizens to hold our elected representatives accountable for development extends beyond the June 24 Elections. And that is the critical social contract between the citizen and the elected officials. So while ECSL has a moral duty and obligation to conduct fair elections, our moral duty to vote as citizens, and obligations to maintain peace and hold our elected officials accountable are fundamental to a healthy democracy.
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©️Alhaji U Njai #Jata #Meejoh #ThePeoplesScientist
