An Analysis of Sierra Leone’s June 24, 2023 Election: Transparency and Integrity in the Balance

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SLL

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June 29, 2023

An Analysis of Sierra Leone's June 24, 2023 Election

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An Analysis of Sierra Leone's June 24, 2023 Election: Transparency and Integrity in the Balance

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An Analysis of Sierra Leone’s June 24, 2023 Election: Transparency and Integrity in the Balance

By Bhai Dhawa Sesay

Introduction

Considering the elections held in Sierra Leone on June 24, 2023, various international observers have released statements reflecting on the electoral process and its aftermath. As a nation with a history of complex political dynamics, the analysis of Sierra Leone’s elections and their outcomes bears significance. These statements, from the National Elections Watch (NEW), The Carter Center, The European Union, The UK, The US Bureau of African Affairs, and a Joint Statement by The U.S., UK, Ireland, Germany, France, and the EU Delegation, shed light on the ongoing narrative.

Drawing parallels with the book “Echoes of Democracy: Unrigging Sierra Leone’s Elections,” we delve into an analysis of these statements, offering a comprehensive view of the events surrounding the Sierra Leone Elections 2023.

Findings

National Elections Watch (NEW) notes discrepancies between the official results published by the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) and their Process and Results Verification for Transparency (PRVT) data. The NEW’s assertions reflect an inconsistency that has not been present in previous elections (NEW, 2023).
NEW’s Report
https://sierraleonelive.com/download/8071/?tmstv=1688012220
The Carter Center report supports NEW’s concerns, showing observed issues with the transparency of the tabulation process and instances of broken seals and inappropriately opened ballot boxes. This observation is in line with the shadows of corruption portrayed in “Echoes of Democracy: Unrigging Sierra Leone’s Elections”, where the author writes about the “depth of corruption that had sought to undermine their democracy”, (The Carter Center, 2023).Download The Carter Center Report
https://sierraleonelive.com/download/8080/?tmstv=1688012957
The EU echoed similar concerns about transparency. Their statement reflects procedural discrepancies, rising tensions during counting, and issues regarding the electronic transmission of results. They highlighted statistical inconsistencies in the first and second batches of results published by ECSL and called for the publication of disaggregated results at the polling station level to promote transparency. Their call for the ECSL to publish disaggregated results data reflects the global demand for transparency and public scrutiny outlined in the book. (EU EOM, 2023).Download the EU Report
https://sierraleonelive.com/download/8081/?tmstv=1688013147
The UK, US Bureau of African Affairs, and the joint statement by the U.S., UK, Ireland, Germany, France, and EU Delegation all highlighted their concerns over the lack of transparency in the tabulation process, despite their commendation for the citizens’ dedication to democratic processes. Their support for democracy resonates with the book’s echo of the nation’s “unyielding faith in democracy”. (UK, US Bureau of African Affairs)Download The Joint Statement
https://sierraleonelive.com/download/8084/?tmstv=1688013405

Echoing sentiments from “Echoes of Democracy: Unrigging Sierra Leone’s Elections,” these statements illuminate a critical issue: “In the eye of the storm, Sierra Leone waited. The people, their senses heightened by the revelations of the depth of corruption that had sought to undermine their democracy, watched and hoped” (Chapter 10).

Conclusion

These reports from international observers show a consensus of concerns regarding the transparency of the election results tabulation process in Sierra Leone’s 2023 elections. From the NEW’s discrepancies in PRVT data to the EU’s call for prompt publication of disaggregated results data, the narratives are interwoven with echoes of apprehension over the integrity of the election outcomes.

Despite these difficulties, everyone has praised Sierra Leonean citizens for their commitment to democracy. The “Echoes of Democracy: Unrigging Sierra Leone’s Elections” book underscored this spirit: “Each vote cast was a symbol of defiance, an affirmation of the people’s faith in their nation’s future” (Chapter 10).

The spotlight now falls on Sierra Leone’s Electoral Commission to address these concerns transparently, maintaining the nation’s faith in democratic processes and the broader international community’s trust. The narrative woven from these reports highlights the importance of electoral integrity in preserving democracy, reminding us of all the enduring echoes of democracy.

Echoes of Democracy: Unrigging Sierra Leone’s Elections
Download your FREE copy of the book…
https://sierraleonelive.com/download/7710/?tmstv=1688011394

Sierra Leone Housing and Country Planning: An Analytical Comparison of the SLPP’s 2018 Pledges and Achievements

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SLL

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June 23, 2023

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Sierra Leone Housing and Country Planning: An Analytical Comparison of the SLPP's 2018 Pledges and Achievements

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Sierra Leone Housing and Country Planning: An Analytical Comparison of the SLPP’s 2018 Pledges and Achievements

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Welcome back to our continued analysis of the Sierra Leone People’s Party’s (SLPP) progress over the past five years in the sectors of “Improving Lands, Housing, and Country Planning”. This systematic review aims to measure the extent to which the SLPP has realized the goals outlined in their ambitious 2018 “New Direction” Manifesto. We strive to offer a balanced and detailed comparison of the objectives stated and the achievements made, illuminating the path of progress tread by the SLPP.

This analysis is presented in two sections, each given its own post. You are currently reading Part 2, which delves into “Housing and Country Planning”. Part 1, focusing on “Lands”, can be found in a separate post. To assist you in a comprehensive evaluation, each post is augmented with 25 probing questions, thoughtfully curated by Sierra Leone Live. These questions serve to guide you, the citizens of Sierra Leone, in determining whether the SLPP has successfully fulfilled its 2018 manifesto promises.

Part 2: Housing and Country Planning

1. Encourage the setting up of Home Finance Institutions:

• The achievement document mentions nothing about the establishment of Home Finance Institutions. Therefore, it’s unclear if this goal was achieved.

2. Set up and enforce standards for building materials:

• This goal aligns with the establishment of the National Building Code mentioned in the achievements document. The National Building Code likely regulates standards for building materials.

3. Encourage large-scale local production of building materials:

• There is no direct mention of this objective in the achievements document.

4. Provide fair and affordable access to decent housing:

• The recovery and distribution of state lands to members of the public for housing, as stated in the achievements document, aligns with this goal. However, the terms “fair” and “affordable” are subjective and would require more data for a complete assessment.

5. Improve access and distribution of building materials:

• No information is provided in the achievement document relating to this point.

6. Review and enhance the Sierra Leone Housing Corporation (SALHOC):

• This goal is not directly mentioned in the achievement document.

7. Facilitate access to credit for building and mortgages:

• There is no mention of this in the achievement document.

8. Support rehabilitation programs for public buildings:

• The achievement document does not provide any information on this objective.

9. Support the creation of satellite areas around urban areas:

• There is no mention of this in the achievement document.

10. Pursue the feasibility of extending Freetown:

• This is not directly mentioned in the achievement document.

11. Ensure infrastructure services before developing new areas:

• There is no explicit mention of infrastructure services in the achievement document.

12. Encourage the building of offices outside Freetown:

• No evidence is provided in the achievement document.

13. Encourage private ventures to build facilities in towns:

• Not specifically mentioned in the achievements.

14. Develop a Land Acquisition Account:

• There is no mention of a Land Acquisition Account in the achievement document.

15. Encourage banks to develop a housing loan fund:

• There’s no evidence that this was achieved.

16. Increase the width of access roads:

• There is no mention of this in the achievement document.

17. Encourage the creation of green spaces:

• This goal is not mentioned in the achievements.

From the document provided, it appears that some manifesto goals were partially achieved (e.g., establishing building standards through a National Building Code and increasing access to housing via the recovery and distribution of state lands). However, most of the manifesto points are not directly addressed in the achievement document.

It’s important to note that without a comprehensive list of all actions taken by the government, it’s not possible to definitively say if a goal was not achieved; it may simply not have been included in the provided achievement document.

We thank you for your commitment and interest in this important review of the SLPP’s performance relative to their 2018 manifesto. Your active participation reflects your role as informed and proactive citizens, an essential ingredient for a thriving democracy.

We trust that this analysis has offered you useful insights into the SLPP’s work in “Housing and Country Planning”. Remember, the 25 accompanying questions for each post are there to assist you in assessing the SLPP’s performance in each sector.

Here are the 25 Questions
https://sierraleonelive.com/housing-and-country-planning-25-questions-on-slpps-2018-manifesto-promises/

Housing and Country Planning: 25 Questions on SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Promises

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SLL

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June 23, 2023

SLL Audio News

Housing and Country Planning: 25 Questions on SLPP's 2018 Manifesto Promises

00:00 / 6:55

Housing and Country Planning: 25 Questions on SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Promises

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Welcome to Part 2 of our comprehensive review of the Sierra Leone People’s Party’s (SLPP) “Improving Lands, Housing, and Country Planning” promises as laid out in their 2018 “New Direction” Manifesto. This second part of the review focuses on “Housing and Country Planning”. The goal of this exercise is to provide an impartial evaluation of the SLPP’s achievements over their term in office, and your participation as citizens of Sierra Leone plays an instrumental role in maintaining the accountability and transparency of our government.

In this segment, we present you with a set of 25 carefully structured questions that aim to facilitate an in-depth assessment of the SLPP’s performance against its stated manifesto commitments in the Housing and Country Planning sector. These questions, calling for straightforward ‘yes’ or ‘no’ responses, help you reflect on whether the specific goals of the 2018 manifesto were achieved.

Please note that the questions for Part 1, which focuses on “Lands”, are provided in a separate post for your convenience and easy reference.

Home Finance and Affordable Housing

Manifesto Quote: “Encourage the setting up of Home Finance Institutions, Provide fair and affordable access to decent housing to the citizenry, either through public or private investments, Facilitate access to credit for building and mortgage for regular income and non-regular income earners, Encourage banks to develop a housing loan fund that permits the construction companies to develop affordable housing.”

Was the establishment of Home Finance Institutions encouraged?
Were fair and affordable housing options made accessible to citizens?
Was access to credit for building and mortgages facilitated by regular and non-regular income earners?
Were banks encouraged to develop a housing loan fund for affordable housing?

Building Materials and Infrastructure

Manifesto Quote: “Set up and enforce standards for building materials, Encourage large-scale local production of building materials, Improve access and distribution of imported and locally produced building materials.”

Were standards for building materials set up and enforced?
Was large-scale local production of building materials encouraged?
Was the access to and distribution of both imported and locally produced building materials improved?

Public Buildings and Infrastructure

Manifesto Quote: “Support rehabilitation programmes for public buildings and state-owned quarters nationwide, Rehabilitate Police Barracks, Military Barracks, and construct new modern multi-storey quarters where necessary.”

Were rehabilitation programmes for public buildings and state-owned quarters supported?
Were Police and Military Barracks rehabilitated?
Were new modern multi-storey quarters constructed where necessary?

Urban Development and Transportation

Manifesto Quote: “Support the creation of satellite areas around urban areas for housing major office buildings, Pursue the feasibility of extending the limits of the capital of Freetown by the construction of a modern toll bridge linking Freetown with Lungi and the building of offices outside Freetown by public-private sector collaboration to ease congestion in the Central Business District.”

Were satellite areas around urban areas supported to house major office buildings?
Was the construction of a contemporary toll bridge connecting Freetown and Lungi pursued in order to expand the boundaries of the capital of Freetown?
Was the building of offices outside Freetown, through public-private sector collaboration, encouraged to ease congestion in the Central Business District?

Land Acquisition and Utilization

Manifesto Quote: “Develop a Land Acquisition Account and commence payments for buildings to be demolished in the planned areas to cover a 10-year period. Such areas will be used for car parks, recreation areas, transportation, and transit points.”

Was a Land Acquisition Account developed?
Were payments commenced for buildings to be demolished in the planned areas?
Were the demolished areas used for car parks, recreation areas, transportation, and transit points?

Urban Amenities and Environment

Manifesto Quote: “Encourage private ventures to build multi-storey car parks, public toilets, and bathing facilities in Towns and Cities by providing lands for such purposes, Increase the width of access roads from 20’ to 30’ in all urban areas for vehicular and pedestrian traffic; Encourage the creation of green spaces and on-plot car parking.”

Were private ventures encouraged to build multi-storey car parks, public toilets, and bathing facilities in towns and cities?
Was the width of access roads increased from 20’ to 30’ in all urban areas for vehicular and pedestrian traffic?
Was the creation of green spaces and on-plot car parking encouraged?

Sierra Leone Housing Corporation (SALHOC) and Infrastructure Services

Manifesto Quote: “Review and enhance the role and capacity of the Sierra Leone Housing Corporation (SALHOC); Ensure the provision of infrastructure services such as electricity, water supply, and roads in new areas before they are developed for housing purposes.”

Was the role and capacity of the Sierra Leone Housing Corporation (SALHOC) reviewed and enhanced?
Was the provision of infrastructure services such as electricity, water supply, and roads ensured in new areas before they were developed for housing?
Were new areas developed for housing after ensuring the provision of infrastructure services?
Were new areas supplied with electricity before they were developed for housing purposes?
Were new areas provided with a water supply before they were developed for housing purposes?
Were roads constructed in new areas before they were developed for housing purposes?

We extend our sincere gratitude to each one of you for your active engagement in this vital democratic process. Your contributions are of great importance in promoting accountability and good governance. As we proceed to further segments of this review, we encourage you to continue with your active participation. Thank you once again for your time and commitment.

Please take the Survey
https://sierraleonelive.com/survey/810db27b-5a7d-4b67-a17a-ad944b579781/

Improving Lands, Housing, and Country Planning: A Comparative Analysis of the SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto and Achievements in 2023

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SLL

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June 23, 2023

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Improving Lands, Housing, and Country Planning: A Comparative Analysis of the SLPP's 2018 Manifesto and Achievements in 2023

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Improving Lands, Housing, and Country Planning: A Comparative Analysis of the SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto and Achievements

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Welcome to our in-depth analysis of the Sierra Leone People’s Party’s (SLPP) track record over the past five years in “Improving Lands, Housing, and Country Planning”. This detailed comparison aims to evaluate how well the SLPP has managed to transform the ambitions laid out in their 2018 “New Direction” Manifesto into concrete achievements.

We are devoted to providing an objective and thorough comparison of the stated goals and actual accomplishments, illuminating the SLPP-paved path of progress.

This evaluation is structured in two sections, each presented in a separate post. You are currently reading Part 1, which is dedicated to “Lands”. Part 2, focusing on “Housing and Country Planning”, can be found in a separate post. Each post comes with 25 thought-provoking questions that Sierra Leone Live has painstakingly prepared to aid you in conducting a thorough evaluation. These questions aim to guide you, the citizens of Sierra Leone, in forming a judgment on whether the SLPP has met its 2018 manifesto commitments.

Part 1: Lands

Land Tenure System Reform:
The Manifesto promised a reformation of the land tenure system for modern economic compatibility. The achievement document mentions the passing of the Customary Land Rights Act and the National Lands Commission Act. These two acts might show some progress towards a reformation of the land tenure system. But without specific details about these acts, it is difficult to determine the exact level of alignment with the manifesto promise.
Implementation of the National Lands Policy 2015:
There’s no specific mention of this policy in the achievement document, so we cannot directly measure success here.
Improvement of State Land Management:
The government recovered 40,000 state lands, establishing land banks as part of an effort to improve the management and equitable distribution of state lands. This achievement aligns well with the manifesto promise.
Capacity Development of the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning:
The capacity for digital land administration was enhanced with personnel trained in geospatial land administration technologies. This shows a certain level of capacity development, though it’s not explicitly tied to the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning or the establishment of branches in all district headquarters towns.
Establishment of a Lands Court:
There’s no explicit mention of this in the achievements.
Affordable Housing Construction:
While the National Housing policy has been established, there’s no explicit mention of affordable housing construction for the underprivileged.
Creation of Land Banks:
The achievement document states that 40,000 state lands were recovered and secured as land banks. This aligns well with the manifesto’s promise.
Enforcement of Land Use Planning and Building Regulations:
The establishment of the National Building Code could be a step towards improved enforcement of land use planning and building regulations.
Digitization of Land Plots, Streets, and Roads:
The introduction of a Land Cadastral Administration System and training personnel in geospatial land administration technologies suggest progress toward this goal.
Pre-design of Undeveloped Areas with Standard Lots:
There’s no explicit mention of this in the achievements.
Land Use Zoning System:
Again, there’s no direct mention of this in the achievements.
Modernization and Beautification of the Western Area and the City of Freetown:
No information is provided about any initiatives toward this aim.
National Debate on Land Tenure Reform:
The passing of the Customary Land Rights Act and the National Lands Commission Act might suggest that some form of debate or discussion has occurred, but this isn’t stated explicitly.
Improved Legal Framework for Leaseholds or Gifts of Land:
There is no specific information about this in the achievements.
Revision of “Non-Native” Sierra Leonean Nomenclature Legislation:
Not mentioned in the achievement document.
Structuring of the Land Policy for Investment and Legal Redress:
The establishment of the National Lands Commission could be part of structuring the Land Policy as per the manifesto, though it’s not explicitly mentioned.
Land Availability to All Sierra Leoneans:
The recovered state lands being made available to the public through lease or grant align with this point.

The SLPP government has made progress in certain key areas outlined in the 2018 Manifesto, such as the management of state lands, digitization of land administration, and creation of land banks. However, several specific commitments, such as establishing a Lands Court and building affordable housing for the underprivileged, are not mentioned in the achievements report. Similarly, certain promises, like facilitating a national debate on land tenure reform, removing discriminatory legislation, and improving the legal framework for leaseholds or land gifts, remain unclear based on the provided documents. As with all such analyses, it’s important to note that the absence of achievement in this report does not mean that progress was not made; it may simply not have been included in this summary.

Therefore, based on the achievements report, it is unclear if goals related to housing, legal revisions, and land use planning have been fully addressed. In the future, it would be beneficial to provide more comprehensive progress reports to allow a more detailed assessment.

Thank you, fellow citizens, for taking the time to delve into this analysis. As an informed electorate, it is our duty to hold our representatives accountable for their promises and assess their performance critically. Remember, your voice and your vote matter in shaping the future of Sierra Leone.

We appreciate your interest and effort in seeking clarity and understanding of these crucial issues. Please look out for our subsequent post containing the 25 question survey. This tool will not only aid your evaluation but also provide an opportunity to make your assessment known. In this way, we can all contribute to the ongoing discourse about the direction Sierra Leone should take in the coming years.

Here’s to an empowered and informed Sierra Leone. Together, we can shape the future of our beloved nation. Thank you for your participation.

Here are the 25 Questions
https://sierraleonelive.com/land-reforms-evaluating-the-slpps-2018-manifesto-commitments-a-25-question-review/

Land Reforms: Evaluating the SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Commitments: A 25-Question Review

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SLL

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June 23, 2023

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Land Reforms: Evaluating the SLPP's 2018 Manifesto Commitments: A 25-Question Review

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Land Reforms: Evaluating the SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Commitments: A 25-Question Review

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Welcome to Part 1 of our in-depth review of the Sierra Leone People’s Party’s (SLPP) “Improving Lands, Housing, and Country Planning” manifesto promises. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and unbiased evaluation of the SLPP’s success in realizing the ambitions outlined in its 2018 “New Direction” Manifesto. Your active involvement as citizens of Sierra Leone in this process is a crucial aspect of our vibrant democracy.

The evaluation for Part 1 focuses on “Lands” and presents you with a set of 25 carefully curated questions that aim to guide you in assessing whether the SLPP has met its 2018 manifesto commitments in this sector. Each question helps you reflect on the specific targets of the SLPP’s 2018 manifesto, focusing on ‘yes’ or ‘no’ responses to maintain clarity and simplicity.

The questions for Part 2, which deals with “Housing and Country Planning”, are available in a separate post.

Land Policy and Management

Manifesto Quote: “Implement the National Lands Policy 2015 ensuring justice for all. Improve the management of state lands to ensure equitable distribution.”

Was the National Lands Policy 2015 implemented to ensure justice for all?
Were improvements made in the management of state lands for equitable distribution?

Institutional Capacity Building

Manifesto Quote: “Develop the capacity of the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning to enable it to establish branches in all district headquarter towns.”

Was the capacity of the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning developed?
Were branches of the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning established in all district headquarters towns?

Land Disputes and Legislation

Manifesto Quote: “Set up a Lands Court to help speed up the trial of land cases. Improve the legal framework for leaseholds or gifts of land in the Provinces.”

Was a Lands Court set up to speed up land case trials?
Were improvements made to the legal framework for leaseholds or gifts of land in the Provinces?

Housing and Land Banks

Manifesto Quote: “Build affordable housing around the country for the underprivileged. Create Land Banks to ensure availability and affordability.”

Were affordable houses built around the country for the underprivileged?
Were Land Banks created to ensure land availability and affordability?

Land Use and Building Regulations

Manifesto Quote: “Improve the enforcement of land use planning and building regulations.”

Was enforcement of land use planning improved?
Were building regulations improved?

Digitization and Codification of Land Tenure

Manifesto Quote: “Digitize through the use of GPS all plots, streets, and roads around the country. Codify land tenure through a GIS Cadastral system.”

Were all plots, streets, and roads around the country digitized using GPS?
Was land tenure codified through a GIS Cadastral system?

Urban Development and Planning

Manifesto Quote: “Large new and undeveloped areas to be pre-designed with standard lots and access roads prior to selling allowing for the provision of electricity and water services. Enforce land use zoning system.”

Were large, new, and undeveloped areas pre-designed with standard lots and access roads prior to selling?
Was a land-use zoning system enforced?

City Beautification and Modernization

Manifesto Quote: “Envision the modernization and beautification of the Western Area and the City of Freetown 20 years into the future.”

Were steps taken to modernize and beautify the Western Area and the City of Freetown?

Land Tenure Reform

Manifesto Quote: “The SLPP government will facilitate a national debate on land tenure reform consistent with the demands of a modern economy.”

Was a national debate facilitated on land tenure reform?

Discrimination and Legislation

Manifesto Quote: “Revise legislation to remove the “non-native” Sierra Leonean nomenclature and its attendant discrimination.”

Was legislation revised to remove the “non-native” Sierra Leonean nomenclature and its attendant discrimination?

Investment and Legal Redress

Manifesto Quote: “Structure the Land Policy so as to increase the scope for investment and provide for means of having legal redress.”

Was the Land Policy structured to increase the scope for investment?
Were means for having legal redress provided?

Land Availability

Manifesto Quote: “Ensure land is available to all Sierra Leoneans anywhere in Sierra Leone.”

Was land made available to all Sierra Leoneans anywhere in Sierra Leone?

Miscellaneous

Manifesto Quote: “All private and state lands will be plotted as multiples of the standard lot.”

Were all private and state lands plotted as multiples of the standard lot?

Manifesto Quote: “Flyovers will be built in key locations, and critical road works in the City widened.”

Were flyovers built in key locations?
Were critical roads in the City widened?

Manifesto Quote: “Create parking and green spaces around them.”

Were parking lots and green spaces created around them?

Manifesto Quote: “Improve the legal framework for leaseholds or gifts of land in the Provinces in order to make them amenable for collateral security and investment.”

Was the legal framework for leaseholds or gifts of land in the Provinces improved to make them amenable to collateral security and investment?

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to each of you for your active participation in this vital democratic process. Your input is invaluable in maintaining the accountability and transparency of our government. We encourage you to continue with this spirit of active citizenship as we move on to Part 2 of this review.

Thank you once again for your time and involvement.

Take the Survey
https://sierraleonelive.com/survey/183f145f-3529-4014-ad15-ba4b72c77c82/

Sierra Leone Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy: An In-Depth Comparison of the SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Promises and Achievements in 2023

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SLL

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June 23, 2023

SLL Audio News

Sierra Leone Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy: An In-Depth Comparison of the SLPP's 2018 Manifesto Promises and Achievements in 2023

00:00 / 6:16

Sierra Leone Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy: An In-Depth Comparison of the SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Promises and Achievements in 2023

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Welcome to our comprehensive comparison of Sierra Leone’s Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy policies outlined in the SLPP’s 2018 New Direction Manifesto with the actual achievements reported after five years in office. Sierra Leone Live is committed to providing citizens with clear and objective information to evaluate the government’s performance against its declared intentions. The political landscape is intricate and often challenging to navigate, and we understand the value of discerning analysis in fostering civic responsibility and accountability.

As part of this initiative, we’ve looked closely at the key goals outlined by the SLPP regarding foreign affairs and diplomacy and measured them against the realities delivered over the past five years. This comparative analysis will serve as a critical tool to find out the extent of alignment between the government’s promises and its delivered outcomes.

Besides our analysis, Sierra Leone Live will also provide 25 carefully designed questions for our readers. These questions, informed by the comparison and analysis we present, aim to prompt further reflection on the SLPP’s performance and to engage citizens in the active evaluation of the government’s track record. By considering these questions, you, the citizens, will be better equipped to make informed decisions on the efficacy and integrity of the government’s work.

Elaboration of a robust foreign policy:
The achievements report doesn’t specify the creation of a new foreign policy, although some achievements suggest actions that are consistent with a foreign policy focused on expanding Sierra Leone’s global influence (e.g., the opening of new Embassies, securing visa-free travel for diplomats, and the endorsement for a seat in the UN Security Council).
Restructuring the Foreign Ministry:
A functional management review of the Ministry suggests some restructuring, although the document does not provide specific details on what changes were made or how they reflect the new national policy objectives.
Introduction of professionalism in the Foreign Ministry:
The establishment of a Foreign Service Academy, which typically serves to train high-quality diplomatic personnel, might reflect an effort toward enhancing professionalism in the Foreign Ministry. However, specific details regarding recruitment or training improvements aren’t outlined.
Evaluation and rehabilitation of foreign embassies:
The opening of new embassies in strategic locations aligns with this objective. However, the report doesn’t provide explicit information on the evaluation, rehabilitation, or revitalization of existing embassies.
Evaluation and performance criteria for consular personnel:
This point isn’t directly addressed in the achievements document. The functional management review might include this, but it’s not explicit.
Support for Research and Documentation:
SLPP did not directly address this point in the achievement document.
Support for language proficiency training:
SLPP did not directly address this point in the achievement document.
Representation and performance in ECOWAS, AFRICAN UNION, and commitment to international treaties:
Sierra Leone’s contribution to the growth of the ECOWAS Parliament and endorsement by ECOWAS and the AFRICAN UNION for a seat in the UN Security Council are clear indications of increased representation and performance in these regional bodies.
Commitments to the Commonwealth, the Non-Aligned Movement, the UN, and multilateral organisations:
The country’s co-sponsorship of a UN resolution, as well as a request for the President of Sierra Leone to co-chair a UN Education session, shows maintained and perhaps strengthened commitments to the UN.
Development of a new policy approach with the European Union post-Brexit:
The report doesn’t directly address this point.

Additional achievements in the 2023 report not outlined in the 2018 Manifesto include:

Securing Visa-Free Travel to certain countries for diplomats and Service Passport holders.
Sierra Leone co-sponsored a UN Resolution on Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence.
ECOWAS and the AFRICAN UNION endorsed Sierra Leone for a seat in the non-permanent category of the UN Security Council.
Recognition for work in education, including a request for the President to co-chair a UN Education session and an award for the Minister of Education.

While the SLPP seems to have made strides towards its 2018 manifesto goals in foreign affairs and diplomacy, not all original points were directly addressed in the 2023 report. New achievements beyond the original manifesto were recorded.

Our comparison and analysis reveal both alignments and disparities between the SLPP’s 2018 New Direction Manifesto and its reported achievements after five years in office. The landscape of foreign affairs and diplomacy has undeniably evolved over this period, with notable successes and areas requiring further attention.

As Sierra Leone Live, we encourage our readers to reflect on this information and consider the accompanying questions we’ve provided in a separate post. Your engagement is a testament to the vibrant civic spirit of our nation, and your opinions matter in shaping the future course of our beloved Sierra Leone.

Thank you for your time and interest in this endeavor. Together, let us continue to build a more informed and participatory democracy.

Here are the 25 Questions
https://sierraleonelive.com/sierra-leone-foreign-affairs-and-diplomacy-commitments-25-key-questions-on-the-slpps-2018-manifesto-and-its-2023-achievements/

Sierra Leone Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy Commitments: 25 Key Questions on the SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto and its 2023 Achievements

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SLL

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June 23, 2023

SLL Audio News

Sierra Leone Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy Commitments: 25 Key Questions on the SLPP's 2018 Manifesto and its 2023 Achievements

00:00 / 6:24

Sierra Leone Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy Commitments: 25 Key Questions on the SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto and its 2023 Achievements

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Greetings, citizens of Sierra Leone! We are embarking on a collective journey of accountability and transparency, crucial pillars of our vibrant democracy. Today, we present to you a series of questions drawn directly from the Sierra Leone People’s Party’s (SLPP) 2018 Manifesto on Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy.

The essence of these questions is to facilitate a robust assessment of our government’s performance against the pledges it made. We’ve distilled the manifesto’s commitments into 25 key “Yes” or “No” questions, each corresponding to specific promises made in 2018.

We encourage you to consider each question carefully, referring to public records, media reports, and your personal perceptions of the country’s trajectory over the past five years. These questions serve as a tool for active citizen engagement and promote critical reflection on the path our nation has taken under the current government.

Foreign Policy

Manifesto Quote: “Elaborate a new robust foreign policy for Sierra Leone with a clearly focused re-orientation that will de-emphasize dependence on foreign aid in favour of promoting favourable development and trade relations.”

Was a new, robust foreign policy elaborated for Sierra Leone?
Were efforts made to de-emphasize dependence on foreign aid?
Were favourable development and trade relations promoted?

Restructuring of the Foreign Ministry

Manifesto Quote: “Restructure the Foreign Ministry to fully reflect the new national policy objectives.”

Was the Foreign Ministry restructured to reflect new national policy objectives?

Professionalism in the Foreign Ministry

Manifesto Quote: “Take appropriate measures to introduce professionalism in the Foreign Ministry by injecting and maintaining the highest degree of careerism, starting with the recruitment and training of very high calibre personnel as diplomats.”

Were appropriate measures taken to introduce professionalism in the Foreign Ministry?
Was there an emphasis on the recruitment and training of high-calibre personnel as diplomats?

Evaluation of Foreign Embassies

Manifesto Quote: “Evaluate our foreign embassies and missions for rehabilitation, upgrading, and revitalizing.”

Were foreign embassies and missions evaluated for rehabilitation, upgrading, and revitalization?

Performance Criteria for Consular Personnel

Manifesto Quote: “Screen and evaluate all consular personnel and introduce performance criteria consistent with national development outcomes.”

Was there screening and evaluation of all consular personnel?
Were performance criteria introduced that were consistent with national development outcomes?

Support for Research and Documentation

Manifesto Quote: “Support Research and Documentation to equip Foreign Ministry personnel with quality information at all times.”

Was there support for research and documentation in the Foreign Ministry?

Language Proficiency Training

Manifesto Quote: “Support training schemes to enable our diplomats acquire second and third language proficiencies.”

Were training schemes supported to enable diplomats to gain additional language proficiency?

Representation and Performance in ECOWAS and AU

Manifesto Quote: “Raise the level of representation and performance in the organs of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) and maintain full commitment for the domestication of all relevant international treaties and protocols.”

Was the level of representation and performance in ECOWAS and the AU raised?
Were commitments maintained for the domestication of all relevant international treaties and protocols?

Commitments to International Organisations

Manifesto Quote: “Maintain and strengthen national commitments to the Commonwealth, Non-Aligned Movement and the United Nations and all other multilateral organisations.”

Were national commitments to the Commonwealth maintained and strengthened?
Were national commitments to the Non-Aligned Movement maintained and strengthened?
Were national commitments to the United Nations and other multilateral organisations maintained and strengthened?

Policy Approach with the European Union Post-Brexit

Manifesto Quote: “Taking into account Brexit, develop a new development and foreign policy approach with the European Union.”

Was a new development and foreign policy approach with the European Union developed, considering Brexit?

General Performance and Accountability

Was there transparency in the execution of foreign policy?
Were the actions of the Foreign Ministry in alignment with the national policy objectives?
Was the performance of the consular personnel satisfactory?
Was the efficiency and effectiveness of the diplomatic service improved?
Were there improvements in the overall professionalism and competence in the Foreign Ministry?
Was there significant growth in Sierra Leone’s international relations?
Were there any significant challenges encountered in implementing the manifesto’s goals?
Overall, was the New Direction 2018 Manifesto effectively implemented in terms of foreign affairs and diplomacy?

Thank you for taking the time to take part in this important exercise of democratic accountability. Your involvement is vital in shaping the political discourse and ensuring that our leaders remain true to their commitments. It is your attention, your questions, and your votes that drive our nation forward. We appreciate your active participation, and we thank you for your ongoing commitment to the growth and development of Sierra Leone.

Take the Survey

https://sierraleonelive.com/survey/c859ca9d-0d84-46fc-b0b0-578e6dce71ae/

Sierra Leone Energy Supply: A Comparative Analysis of SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Versus 2023 Achievements

By

SLL

-

June 23, 2023

SLL Audio News

Sierra Leone Energy Supply: A Comparative Analysis of SLPP's 2018 Manifesto Versus 2023 Achievements

00:00 / 5:37

Sierra Leone Energy Supply: A Comparative Analysis of SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Versus 2023 Achievements

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Welcome to Sierra Leone Live’s comprehensive comparison and analysis of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and its 2018 New Direction manifesto against its achievements in the energy sector after five years in office. This analysis will provide a detailed exploration of how the promises made in the 2018 manifesto align with the actual achievements reported in 2023. The aim of this comparison is to equip you, the citizens, with the facts and figures necessary to gauge the performance of the SLPP in the energy sector.

Our political and data analysts have meticulously dissected each goal outlined in the 2018 manifesto and evaluated its corresponding implementation, or lack thereof, over the past five years. From electricity supply restoration to rural electrification initiatives to investments in renewable energy, each point in the manifesto has been thoroughly compared with the tangible progress noted in the achievement report.

To foster further understanding and active civic participation, Sierra Leone Live has also compiled a list of 25 pertinent questions that will accompany this analysis. These questions will aid you in discerning whether the SLPP has indeed met its manifesto promises.

The following is a point-by-point analysis comparing the New Direction 2018 Manifesto to the Achievement Report after five years. We’ll discuss whether each point in the manifesto was achieved and highlight key indicators of progress not specifically mentioned in the manifesto.

Restoration of electricity supply to all district capitals:
According to the report, 9 out of 16 district capitals have been connected, meaning some progress has been made. However, it falls short of full accomplishment, assuming the remaining district capitals are still without electricity.
Rural electrification for towns exceeding 20,000 population:
The report does not provide specific data on this. However, the fact that 31% of households now have access to electricity suggests some progress in this area. Without a baseline or location-specific data, it’s hard to definitively evaluate the progress in rural electrification.
Establishment of a Rural Electricity Board and Fund:
There’s no mention of this in the achievements, so it’s unclear if these were established and what their impact might be.
Connection of at least five villages and two towns in each district to the grid or standalone renewable schemes annually:
There’s no specific data on this in the achievement report. It mentions increased installed generation capacity and expanded transmission lines, which could facilitate this, but without more specific information, we can’t evaluate the progress.
Massive investment in renewable energy:
Achieved. The report shows renewable energy generation capacity increased from 10% to 35%.
Promotion of renewable and modern forms of energy like LPG:
Is not explicitly mentioned in the report.
Encouragement of mini-hydro and solar schemes with financial incentives—not explicitly mentioned in the report
Enhancement of female access to modern energy:
The report does not provide data on this.
Encouragement of mining companies to sell excess power to the grid:
Not explicitly mentioned in the report
Review and strengthening of the regulatory agency for the water and electricity sectors:
Not explicitly mentioned in the report.
Promotion of energy efficiency measures nationwide:
The report mentions the reduction of the cost of operations, which might show some efficiency measures, but it’s not clearly stated.
Reform of the power sector, including connection to the West African Power Pool:
Is not explicitly mentioned in the report.

Additional achievements mentioned in the report that were not in the manifesto include:

Increased installed generation capacity from 105 MW in 2018 to 160 MW in 2023.
Electricity generation per capita now stands at 55 KWH.
The Government has expanded the transmission line to 740 km.
The EDSA deficit was reduced to 60%.
Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection Losses were reduced to 40%.

Some progress was made on a few goals outlined in the manifesto. However, many of the specific commitments were not explicitly addressed in the achievement report, making it difficult to evaluate the overall performance. The government has made strides in increasing overall generation capacity, especially in renewable energy, and in expanding access to electricity. This suggests progress towards the broader objective of making energy more widely available. More specific data would be needed to evaluate progress.

Here are the 25 Questions:
https://sierraleonelive.com/evaluating-slpps-energy-supply-promises-25-key-questions-on-the-2018-manifesto-commitments/

Evaluating SLPP’s Energy Supply Promises: 25 Key Questions on the 2018 Manifesto Commitments

By

SLL

-

June 23, 2023

SLL Audio News

Evaluating SLPP's Energy Supply Promises: 25 Key Questions on the 2018 Manifesto Commitments

00:00 / 6:04

Evaluating SLPP’s Energy Supply Promises: 25 Key Questions on the 2018 Manifesto Commitments

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Welcome to Sierra Leone Live’s interactive survey, crafted specifically to assess the energy sector developments from 2018 to 2023, as promised by the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in their New Direction Manifesto. We have carefully curated a set of 25 essential ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ questions for you, the citizens, to help gauge how effectively the promises made by the SLPP have materialized in reality.

These questions span a variety of critical sub-categories, including electricity supply, rural electrification, renewable energy, and more. Each question directly references the commitments made in the 2018 manifesto, creating a direct link between the government’s stated objectives and their implementation over the past five years.

By answering these questions, you are engaging in an invaluable process of democratic participation, holding those in power accountable, and ensuring the future betterment of our beloved Sierra Leone.

Electricity Supply

Manifesto Quote: “Restore electricity supply to all district capitals.”

Was electricity restored to all district capitals?

Rural Electrification

Manifesto Quote: “Initiate a rural electrification programme that will supply electricity to all towns with a population exceeding 20,000.”

Was a rural electrification programme initiated?
Were towns with populations exceeding 20,000 supplied with electricity?

Rural Electricity Infrastructure

Manifesto Quote: “Institute a Rural Electricity Board and a Rural Electricity Fund to promote electrification of rural areas with a view to making electricity readily and widely available in rural areas.”

Was a Rural Electricity Board instituted?
Was a Rural Electricity Fund instituted?

Grid Expansion

Manifesto Quote: “Each year, at least five villages and two towns in each district join the national grid or are connected off-grid on standalone solar or mini-hydro schemes.”

Were at least five villages and two towns in each district added to the national grid each year?
Were standalone solar or mini-hydro schemes implemented in at least five villages and two towns in each district each year?

Renewable Energy

Manifesto Quote: “Massive investment in the renewable energy potential of the country in the areas of solar, hydro, wind, and biomass.”

Was there a massive investment in renewable energy?
Were investments made in solar energy?
Were investments made in hydro energy?
Were investments made in wind energy?
Were investments made in biomass energy?

Modern Energy Forms

Manifesto Quote: “Promote the use of renewable and modern forms of energy like Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).”

Was the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) promoted?

Energy Schemes

Manifesto Quote: “Encourage the start of min-hydro schemes and solar energy schemes and provide special financial incentives to companies in this sector.”

Were mini-hydro schemes started?
Were solar energy schemes started?
Were special financial incentives provided to companies in this sector?

Female Access to Energy

Manifesto Quote: “Enhance female access to modern energy by investing in rural electrification, clean cooking fuel (propane gas), and household energy needs.”

Was there an enhancement of female access to modern energy?
Were investments made in clean cooking fuel (propane gas) for rural households?

Power from Industries

Manifesto Quote: “Encourage mining companies and other major industries to sell excess power to the national grid for the supply of power to the communities in which they operate and other contiguous areas.”

Were mining companies and other major industries encouraged to sell excess power to the national grid?

Regulatory Agency

Manifesto Quote: “Review and strengthen the institutional capacity of the regulatory Agency for the water and electricity sectors.”

Was the institutional capacity of the regulatory agency for the water and electricity sectors reviewed and strengthened?

Energy Efficiency

Manifesto Quote: “Promote energy efficiency measures nationwide.”

Were energy efficiency measures promoted nationwide?

Power Sector Reforms

Manifesto Quote: “Follow up on the reform of the power sector, including connection in the West African Power Pool.”

Were there follow-ups on the reform of the power sector?
Was a connection made in the West African Power Pool?
Were initiatives made to improve the transmission and distribution efficiency of the national power grid?
Was there a significant reduction in power outages and improved reliability in the power supply?

Thank you for your interest and participation in this survey. Your involvement is a testament to the vibrant democracy of our nation, ensuring our leaders uphold their commitments and our country continues to progress. The collective voice of our citizenry, as reflected in this survey, plays a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of our country’s development. Your participation truly makes a difference. Thank you once again, and we look forward to your valuable insights.

Please take the Survey
https://sierraleonelive.com/survey/f9ad7563-b8f5-4cb3-9bba-4761c1eeba55/

Sierra Leone Corruption Crackdown and Accountability: A Comparative Assessment of SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Commitments and Subsequent Achievements

By

SLL

-

June 23, 2023

SLL Audio News

Sierra Leone Corruption Crackdown and Accountability: A Comparative Assessment of SLPP's 2018 Manifesto Commitments and Subsequent Achievements

00:00 / 6:18

Sierra Leone Corruption Crackdown and Accountability: A Comparative Assessment of SLPP’s 2018 Manifesto Commitments and Subsequent Achievements

By the Sierra Leone Live Team

Welcome to our in-depth comparison of the Sierra Leone Peoples Party’s (SLPP) 2018 manifesto pledges against its reported achievements in the years following. Our primary focus will be on the critical issue of fighting corruption and improving accountability, a cornerstone promise of the SLPP’s “New Direction” campaign. Corruption is not only an impediment to economic development and social justice but also a significant obstacle to the democratization of Sierra Leone.

The SLPP government pledged a robust stance on corruption, viewing it as a matter of national security, and proposed many strategies to tackle it. We have dissected these promises and matched them with the actual accomplishments reported in 2023, providing a clear picture of the government’s performance in this area.

To facilitate further citizen engagement and informed decision-making, Sierra Leone Live will also provide a set of 25 targeted questions alongside this analysis. These questions are crafted to help you, as citizens, critically assess whether the SLPP government has delivered on its 2018 manifesto promises in combating corruption and enhancing accountability.

Fight Against Corruption as a National Security Issue:The achievements report shows the recovery of tens of billions of Leones by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), suggesting that the SLPP worked in its anti-corruption stance as promised. The seizing of assets from corrupt public officials further highlights the government’s dedication to this issue.
Review of the ACC Act:The manifesto promised to review the ACC Act within the first 100 days in office, including provisions for publishing asset declaration forms. The achievement report states that the Anti-Corruption Act was amended, which is in line with their promises.
Leadership in the Fight Against Corruption:The achievement report doesn’t directly address the commitment of the political leadership to fighting corruption. However, the actions taken in amending the ACC Act and recovering funds from corrupt officials indirectly show leadership involvement.
Categorize and Measure Corruption:The achievement report doesn’t specify whether corruption was categorized and measured as per the economic costs, as pledged in the manifesto.
Implementation of Recommendations in Annual Audits:The achievement report does not mention the implementation status of recommendations from annual audits.
Adherence to the Access to Information Act:While not specifically mentioned, improvements in corruption perception under the SLPP government, as measured by Transparency International and the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law in Sierra Leone, suggest an increase in transparency, which could be tied to implementing the Access to Information Act.
National Public Sector Transparency and Accountability Initiative (NAPSTAI): The achievement report does not mention this initiative specifically.
Support to CSOs:The achievement report does not mention support for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) or their capacity to prepare shadow reports.
Inter-agency Cooperation:The achievement report does not explicitly mention improvements in inter-agency cooperation to prevent, detect, and punish corrupt practices.
Results-Based Management (RBM):The achievement report does not specifically mention the implementation of RBM.
Social Accountability:Improvements in the corruption perception index might suggest increased social accountability, although this isn’t directly mentioned in the achievement report.
Public Expenditure Tracking Survey (PETS) and District Budget Oversight (DBO):They do not mention these specific elements in the achievement report.
Code of Conduct for Public Officials:The achievement report does not mention the enforcement of a comprehensive code of conduct for public officials.
Special Anti-Corruption Division in the High Court:The achievement report does not specifically mention the establishment of this division.

Additional Achievements

The achievement report mentions the award of SL 79% in 2022 by the MCC, an improvement from 49% under the previous government.
The Afro Barometer recorded a decline in the public’s perception of corruption from 70% to 40%, showing a marked improvement in governance.

While certain actions have been taken to fulfill some promises outlined in the 2018 Manifesto, notably the fight against corruption and the review of the ACC Act, the achievement report does not comprehensively respond to all points outlined in the Manifesto. Further detail would be required to fully assess the fulfillment of each promise.

We thank you for your time and commitment to understanding the complexities of these important issues and for being an engaged citizen. Your interest in scrutinizing the government’s performance against its promises is crucial for a thriving democracy and a future where corruption has no place.

Remember, each one of us has a part to play in building a better Sierra Leone. In a separate post, you will find the survey with 25 questions. We encourage you to look into this and provide your valuable insights. This is your opportunity to express your views on the government’s efforts to fight corruption and improve accountability. Let us stand together, demand accountability, and shape the future of our beautiful country.

Here are the 25 Questions
https://sierraleonelive.com/anti-corruption-commitments-and-achievements-25-critical-questions-on-the-slpps-2018-manifesto/

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