Human Rights Defenders Network Sierra Leone (HRDN) and HURIDAC Release Joint General Election Observation Report 2018

Freetown, Sierra Leone — 2018

The Human Rights Defenders Network Sierra Leone (HRDN), in partnership with the Advancement Development and Advocacy Centre (HURIDAC), has released its comprehensive General Election Observation Report for Sierra Leone’s 2018 presidential, parliamentary, and local council elections. This joint report marks the culmination of an extensive election monitoring process, where HRDN and HURIDAC observed the electoral process across the country to assess its transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to national and international human rights standards.

The report, which reflects the combined efforts of both organizations, highlights key findings on the conduct of the elections, the effectiveness of electoral reforms, and the challenges encountered by voters, election observers, and stakeholders.

Background to the Report

The Sierra Leone General Elections, held on March 7, 2018, marked a critical moment in the country’s democratic journey. For the first time in a decade, Sierra Leoneans went to the polls to elect a new president, parliamentarians, and local council officials in what was expected to be a highly competitive process. Following a period of intense political engagement and dialogue, HRDN and HURIDAC were committed to observing the elections in a transparent, impartial, and comprehensive manner.

Over the course of the election period, both organizations deployed a network of trained election observers, covering urban and rural areas alike. These observers monitored polling stations, voter registration centers, the conduct of political parties and their supporters, and the general security environment during the election process. Additionally, HRDN and HURIDAC worked closely with civil society actors, media outlets, and international partners to ensure a robust, multi-faceted observation effort.