The recent claim by Hindolo Moiwo Gevao, a Member of Parliament representing Kailahun District, that the All People’s Congress is lobbying the international community to secure the appointment of Marcella Samba Sesay, head of National Election Watch, as Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, has generated significant public debate.
Speaking during an interview on 98.1 FM, Gevao stated that he possesses evidence to substantiate the allegation, describing it as part of broader political maneuvering surrounding electoral leadership and institutional independence. His remarks come amid continued national conversations about electoral reforms, tensions following the 2023 general elections, and the role of the Electoral Commission in safeguarding credible future polls.
Spear News recognises Honourable Gevao as an experienced parliamentarian and legal practitioner who has consistently contributed to national discourse on governance and accountability. His readiness to address sensitive political matters in the public space reflects the openness that underpins democratic engagement.
However, allegations of this magnitude, suggesting coordinated international influence over a sovereign appointment process within a critical national institution, require clear and verifiable evidence. In legal tradition, the principle of ei incumbit probatio qui dicit, non qui negat places the burden of proof on the individual who makes an assertion. Without substantiation, such claims risk being interpreted as conjecture, with potential implications for public confidence in political institutions and electoral processes.
Spear News therefore respectfully calls on Honourable Gevao to make available the evidence he referenced. The platform remains prepared to publish any credible documentation or material he provides, either in full or in fair summary, to ensure transparency and enable the public to assess the matter based on facts.
Openness and accountability serve all stakeholders, including the Member of Parliament, the APC, civil society organisations such as National Election Watch, and most importantly, the people of Sierra Leone who deserve electoral institutions free from doubt or perceived external interference. In the interest of informed democratic discourse, the evidence should be presented for public scrutiny.