His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio presided over Mr. Alex Pat Labib Saffa’s official swearing-in ceremony as the newly appointed Electoral Commissioner for the Eastern Region, which was unanimously approved by Parliament.
The ceremony, held at State House, formalised Mr. Saffa’s appointment by Section 32(6) of Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution, which requires Electoral Commissioners to take and subscribe an oath of office before beginning their duties. Leading the proceedings, Secretary to the President Mr. Barba Brima Fortune stated that Mr. Saffa had completed a thorough due diligence process and received full support from Members of Parliament.
Commissioner Saffa took the oath of office before the President, promising to uphold, support, and maintain the Constitution in the performance of his duties while committing to impartiality, transparency, and integrity.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Saffa thanked President Bio for placing his trust in him and described the appointment as a great honour. “Your Excellency, I’m deeply humbled. This appointment demonstrates your commitment to strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions,” he stated.
He also promised to work with other commissioners and stakeholders to ensure free, fair, and credible elections that truly reflect the will of the Sierra Leone people. “An impartial and transparent electoral commission is the backbone of any vibrant democracy,” according to him.
Commissioner Saffa emphasised his willingness to collaborate across political lines and civic interests in the Eastern Region to create an electoral environment that reflects the people’s aspirations. He also thanked the President for the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the country’s democratic development.
President Julius Maada Bio responded by congratulating the newly sworn-in Commissioner and acknowledging the weight and complexity of the role. “Your task is huge and difficult, but you are familiar with the terrain,” he told me.
The President urged the National Electoral Commission (NEC) and all Commissioners to start preparing for the 2028 election cycle as soon as possible, emphasising the importance of mental and operational readiness. “The 2028 elections will come with pressure, but I urge you to rise above all odds and ensure credible election results,” said the governor.
He concluded by encouraging Commissioner Saffa to act in the best interests of the country, with a clear emphasis on maintaining public trust, carrying out the will of the people, and preserving the integrity of Sierra Leone’s democratic process.
