2018年-查塔姆研究所_Sierra_Leone039s_2012_Elections_9页_248kb

Africa Programme Meeting Summary: Sierra Leone's 2012 Elections

Core Content

The document provides an analysis of Sierra Leone's 2012 elections, focusing on the role of institutions, political parties, the security sector, and civil society in ensuring a fair and peaceful electoral process. It highlights both the progress made and the challenges that remain in consolidating democracy in a post-conflict setting.

Main Points

1. Election Context and Opportunities

• Sierra Leone is in its third post-conflict election, presenting an opportunity to deepen democratic culture.
• Ensuring inclusive participation and fair play is critical for the country’s stability and democratic consolidation.
• The UK and other international development partners have a key role in supporting the consolidation of democracy.

2. National Electoral Commission (NEC)

• The NEC is conducting multi-tier elections on 17 November 2012.
• The Provisional Voters Register includes 2,692,635 registered voters, with ongoing inclusion claims.
• Nominations for local councils were conducted between 14–23 September 2012 with no reported objections.
• A total of 1,626 candidates were nominated across 10 political parties, with a gender imbalance (79% men, 21% women).
• Campaign activities are scheduled from 17 October to 15 November 2012.
• The NEC’s credibility is a major asset, but the abrupt increase in nomination fees without clear justification damaged its independence and prompted a boycott by political parties.
• The government later intervened to subsidize the fees and revert to the 2007 schedule.

3. Political Parties Activities

• Political primaries in 2012 contributed to internal party democracy by allowing community input.
• Some party leaders are accused of using inflammatory language and hate speech, which can incite violence.
• The PPRC, led by Justice Tolla Thompson, has shown potential for improvement, but its legislative efforts were undermined by a lack of political support.
• Civil society continues to monitor and influence the electoral process through a 5-point strategy.

4. Security Sector

• The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) are responsible for election security, but their professionalism is under scrutiny due to reports of excessive force and high-handedness.
• The Office of National Security (ONS) coordinates the security architecture, but there are concerns about the SLP’s preparedness, including inadequate logistics and manpower.

5. Electoral Justice

• The establishment of the Election Offences Court is a positive step, but executive interference in the judiciary remains a concern.
• The case of Hon. Robin Fallay, who was dropped from charges after switching parties, raises questions about the court’s impartiality and effectiveness.

6. Inclusive Participation

• Despite awareness of gender and youth quotas, there is little legislative or political commitment to addressing the exclusion of marginalized groups.
• Women’s representation in local council nominations is at 21%, while parliamentary figures are estimated at 5%.

7. Civil Society and International Engagement

• Civil society continues to play a watchdog role, advocating for transparency and non-violence.
• A Citizens Situation Room is planned to be established a month before the polls.
• The international donor community is funding the elections through a Basket Fund and is actively involved in ensuring credibility and fairness.
• International observer groups, including the Commonwealth, Carter Center, EU, and ECOWAS, will monitor the elections.

Key Recommendations

• NEC: Should prioritize transparency and consensus-building with political parties, civil society, and other stakeholders to restore public confidence.
• Political Parties: Must manage their supporters professionally and avoid interfering with justice processes.
• UK Government: Should engage with political leaders to discourage inflammatory rhetoric and ensure the SLP operates with professionalism and impartiality.
• International Donor Community: Should use their influence and financial resources to support the NEC and ensure adequate police resources.
• Civil Society: Must continue to be involved in decision-making and ensure transparency through electoral education and rapid response mechanisms.

Conclusion

The 2012 elections in Sierra Leone represent a significant opportunity for democratic consolidation, but they also face serious challenges, including institutional integrity, political polarization, and security concerns. The role of civil society and international partners is crucial in ensuring the process is free, fair, and peaceful.