Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq.@Keketoma_Sandi
Presidential Press Secretary Criticizes APC’s Boycott, Urges Party to Resolve Differences Within the Law
Freetown, Sierra Leone, 27 February 2026 - The Presidential Press Secretary, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq, has criticised the All People’s Congress (APC) for issuing a 48-hour ultimatum over the appointment of Edmond S. Alpha as substantive Chief Electoral Commissioner, describing the party’s position as unjustifiable and inconsistent with constitutional governance.
In a detailed public commentary dated 26 February 2026, Sandi said President Julius Maada Bio acted fully within the provisions of the 1991 Constitution when he appointed Alpha, subject to parliamentary approval, following a consultation process that received endorsements from 12 of Sierra Leone’s 14 registered political parties.
Despite participating in the consultations, the APC rejected the appointment and threatened to withdraw its elected officials from Parliament, local councils, and other governance structures, arguing that the decision violated the Agreement for National Unity and the Tripartite recommendations.
Sandi rejected that claim, noting that the Agreement itself affirms the supremacy of the Constitution. He stressed that no political agreement can override a clear constitutional duty, adding that the President’s powers of appointment are neither suspended nor limited by subjective claims of “good faith.”
He further cited Section 171(14) of the Constitution, which provides that while consultation is required, the President is not bound by the advice of any political party. According to Sandi, the APC cannot credibly participate in consultations and later repudiate the outcome simply because it is dissatisfied with the result.
The Press Secretary also criticised the APC’s decision to boycott the parliamentary interview of Alpha, stating that while their absence did not invalidate the process, it deprived their constituents of representation at a critical stage of national decision-making.
Responding to arguments that the appointment was premature due to a proposed constitutional amendment currently before Parliament, Sandi dismissed the claim as political rather than legal. He emphasized that until an amendment is passed and comes into force, the existing Constitution remains fully operative.
Sandi also underscored the need for stable leadership at the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone, pointing to ongoing institutional reforms and the country’s preparation for the next general elections, now just over two years away. He warned that prolonging an acting appointment at such a critical institution could undermine preparedness and public confidence.
Concluding, the Presidential Press Secretary said democracy requires respect for lawful procedures and majority decisions within constitutional frameworks. He urged the APC to pursue its grievances through Parliament and other legal channels rather than ultimatums and boycotts.
“Differences must be resolved within the law,” Sandi stated, adding that national stability, constitutional order, and the credibility of the electoral process must always take precedence over partisan calculations.