The Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has suspended moves to constitute a committee to investigate National Elections Watch, citing the sensitivity of the matter and the need for what he described as “proper judgment” before any formal action is taken.
The decision followed deliberations on a motion introduced by Hon. Sellu, who raised concerns over the credibility of the election monitoring body. He told the House that the organisation’s standing had been called into question after a press release from the Office of National Security distanced itself from NEW’s 2023 election report, an issue he said warranted parliamentary scrutiny.
Sellu further referenced complaints reportedly submitted by a consortium of civil society organisations, alleging financial irregularities within NEW. According to him, the allegations, combined with concerns about the organisation’s reporting during the elections, made it necessary for Parliament to intervene and establish the facts.
The motion was seconded by Hon. Ambrose Lebbie, who also questioned the credibility of the organisation’s claims regarding its membership strength. He argued that while NEW presents itself as a coalition representing over 400 civil society groups, available indications suggest a significantly lower level of participation.
Lebbie told lawmakers that there was a need for transparency, particularly with regard to the organisation’s funding sources and operational structure, stressing that the public deserves clarity on institutions that play a role in election monitoring and democratic processes.
However, the debate took a different turn when Hon. Mohamed Bangura urged caution, warning against rushing into a formal investigation without adequate internal consultations. He recommended that Parliament first convene a closed-door session to review the issues raised, noting that there appeared to be inconsistencies in the arguments presented by both the mover and seconder of the motion.
Bangura maintained that a more measured approach would allow lawmakers to examine the matter objectively and avoid actions that could have wider implications for civil society engagement and public confidence in democratic institutions.
In his ruling, Speaker Thomas acknowledged the concerns raised but emphasised the need for careful handling of the issue, given its potential impact on governance, electoral integrity, and relations between state institutions and civil society organisations. He subsequently halted the process of setting up the investigative committee, pending further consideration.
The development highlights growing tensions around election monitoring and accountability mechanisms in Sierra Leone, particularly in the aftermath of the 2023 general elections, where the role and credibility of observer groups have come under increased scrutiny.
While no timeline has been announced for further deliberations, parliamentary sources indicate that discussions on the matter are likely to continue, as lawmakers weigh the need for oversight against the broader implications of investigating a prominent civil society organisation involved in electoral processes.