AYV News, June 19, 2023
Former Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, head of delegation
The Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) has arrived in Sierra Leone and its Chair, His Excellency Professor Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice President of Nigeria will be holding its inaugural press conference today 19th June, 2023 at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown.
Prof. Osinbajo will be leading a team of 12 distinguished election observers (including the Chair) to observe the upcoming multi-tier elections in Sierra Leone.
The COG comprises of international experts from across the Commonwealth, representing a wide scope of expertise in law, human rights, media, gender, diplomacy and election administration.
The team will be in Sierra Leone from 17th to 30th June, 2023 to observe the electoral process and provide an independent assessment of whether the election has been conducted in a credible member. The press conference will provide more information about their activities.
The mandate of the Commonwealth Observer Group will be to observe the electoral process and provide an independent assessment of whether the election has been conducted in a credible manner.
The Group will then report on the conduct of the elections in accordance with the standards to which Sierra Leone has committed itself, including its own laws.
In line with Commonwealth methodology, the Group will consider, among other things, whether conditions exist for credible and inclusive elections, including a fair election environment; whether public media has been impartial; the transparency of the entire process; and whether voters are free to express their will.
Upon completion of its assignment, the Group will submit its recommendations in a report to the Commonwealth Secretary-General, who will subsequently share it with the Government of Sierra Leone, the Electoral Commission, political parties and all Commonwealth governments.
