International Moral Guarantors Recommend Expansion Of Tripartite Framework
By: Alimatu Kargbo
A high-level joint assessment mission by international partners has reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to peace, democratic consolidation, and national unity, following a week of intensive dialogue between the Government and the All People’s Congress (APC).
The engagement, held in Freetown and facilitated by the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), brought together key national stakeholders and international moral guarantors, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the United Nations, and the Commonwealth.
Opening the programme, Rev. Dr. Shodankeh Johnson, Chairman of the ICPNC, welcomed distinguished delegates and described the week-long engagement as “remarkable and productive,” highlighting the dedication of both national actors and international partners in advancing dialogue and consensus-building.
Delivering the official press statement on behalf of the international moral guarantors, Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang outlined the purpose and outcomes of the Joint Assessment Mission, which took place from April 13 to 20, 2026.
She noted that the mission was aimed at assessing the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity and the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee, ensuring that Sierra Leone remains on a steady path toward peace, stability, democracy, and credible electoral processes.
According to her statement, the mission held consultations with key stakeholders, including Julius Maada Bio, government officials, political parties, Parliament, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the media.
The mission acknowledged both progress and challenges in implementing the agreement, but commended the renewed commitment of the Government and the APC to rebuild trust, strengthen dialogue, and promote inclusive governance.
Among the key outcomes highlighted were plans to establish a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Electoral Matters, restructure and expand the Tripartite framework for broader inclusivity, and constitute a legal reform team to guide constitutional and legislative changes.
The statement further emphasized the need for consensus on the electoral system ahead of the 2028 general elections, as well as improvements in voter registration and results management systems to ensure transparency and credibility.
The mission also encouraged all stakeholders to adopt an inclusive approach to the use of the 2025 population and housing census data for both governance and electoral purposes.
Importantly, it called on political actors and citizens to exercise restraint, avoid incitement and disinformation, and contribute to a peaceful national environment.
“The path to lasting peace lies in sustained dialogue, trust-building, and inclusive participation,” the statement emphasized.
In his vote of thanks, John Azuma described the event as “a historic moment” and a testament to Sierra Leone’s commitment to unity and democratic progress.
Quoting Psalm 133:1, he said, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity,” stressing the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders.
Ambassador Azuma expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Sierra Leone, led by President Bio, for their continued commitment to peace and democracy. He also commended the contributions of political parties, Parliament, the security sector, civil society, the media, and international partners.
He further recognized the efforts of ECOWAS, the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and the ICPNC for their roles in facilitating dialogue and supporting the peace process.
“Today’s programme reminds us that sustainable peace is built on dialogue, trust, and collective responsibility,” he noted, expressing confidence that Sierra Leone will continue to consolidate its democratic gains.
The event concluded with renewed calls for national cohesion, continued engagement among stakeholders, and sustained international support to ensure the full implementation of the Agreement for National Unity.
