FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – April 19, 2026 – The main opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) announced that it has secured a structured, internationally monitored electoral reform agreement with the Government of Sierra Leone, but declared it is giving the process “one final chance” —warning that any failure to implement commitments by the end of December 2026 will prompt the party to determine its next course of action, with all lawful options remaining open.
The agreement follows high-level engagements facilitated by International Moral Guarantors from April 14 to 19, 2026. According to an official APC statement, the talks produced clear and actionable understandings captured within the framework of the Moral Guarantors’ Communiqué.
Central to these understandings is a government commitment to implement electoral reforms as contained in the Tripartite Committee Recommendations, including the restructuring of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) and a review of its leadership framework “in a manner that restores credibility and public trust.” The commitments are backed by defined timelines and accountability mechanisms, including a joint review process with the Moral Guarantors by the end of December 2026, alongside continued national and international monitoring.
The APC also stated that the government has undertaken to adopt an inclusive, all-stakeholder approach regarding the use of the 2026 Population and Housing Census data, recognizing its significance for electoral planning and representation. The party further underscored the need for complementary parliamentary and legislative reforms.
While describing the outcome as “a decisive opportunity” for meaningful implementation, the APC issued a firm warning: “There must be no misunderstanding that the APC will not accept indefinite delays, procedural excuses, or superficial compliance.”
The party urged its members and supporters to remain calm, disciplined, and united, while actively monitoring implementation. “This process has now transitioned from negotiation to accountability,” the statement said.
“Let it be clearly understood that the APC has given this process one final chance,” the party declared. “Should there be any failure in implementation, lack of commitment, or bad faith on the part of the Government within the agreed timelines, particularly by the end of December 2026, the APC will not hesitate to return to its membership and the people of Sierra Leone to determine and announce the next course of action. All options remain open within the framework of law and democratic responsibility.”
