By Kenema Heritage Media Network
Sources within the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice have confirmed that final legal advice has been delivered to the Local Government Ministry and the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) regarding the upcoming Kenema District Council Chairmanship by-election. Following the death of Chairman Mohamed Sesay on August 6, 2024, the Attorney General has advised canceling the scheduled elections and endorsing Deputy Chairperson Madam Franciss Jambawai, who is currently acting as Chairperson, as the legitimate successor.
This advice comes at a crucial time, as ECSL had already scheduled the by-election for November 16, 2024, and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) had announced that the final date for candidate nominations was set for September 29, 2024, by the party’s National Secretary, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, Esq.
The legal argument presented by the Attorney General’s office is rooted in the provisions of the 2023 Local Council Act, which allows for a deputy to assume full responsibility in the event of the chairperson’s death. The Attorney General emphasized that Madam Jambawai, having served alongside the late Chairman in a joint five-year mandate, is legally entitled to take over the role without the need for new elections.
This recommendation is seen as a solution to alleviate the growing political tension within the SLPP and the district, as aspirants were reported to have already begun lobbying for the position. The decision is expected to quell unrest and restore political stability in Kenema District, which is a key political stronghold for the ruling SLPP.
Local stakeholders, including the 16 Chiefdom Authorities of Kenema, have expressed support for the Attorney General’s position, praising the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio for championing women’s empowerment. The move to endorse Madam Jambawai aligns with the government’s commitment to promoting female leadership, as demonstrated through the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign, the Gender Empowerment Bill, and efforts to combat early marriage.
The Kenema Heritage Media Network, which first reported the Attorney General’s legal advice, noted that the district has since seen a restoration of political calm. Many residents and chiefs have welcomed the news, affirming that the continuation of projects initiated under the late Chairman Sesay’s leadership can now proceed without further political disruption.
Further updates on this matter will be provided as the situation continues to unfold.