Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Representative to the United Nations, declared a $1.5 million investment by the United States government, facilitated through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to bolster Sierra Leone’s Agreement for National Unity and advance its electoral reform processes.
Addressing the media in Freetown, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield emphasized the fundamental role of democracy in fostering a free, fair, and prosperous society. She commended the collaborative efforts of the Government of Sierra Leone and opposition leaders in upholding and expanding democracy, particularly through the historic Agreement for National Unity.
The agreement serves as a crucial framework for electoral reform and inter-party dialogue, laying the groundwork for further progress.
Acknowledging the strides made, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield asserted that additional progress was imperative. The $1.5 million investment aims to support Sierra Leone’s Electoral Reform Committee in various capacities:
1.Technical Assistance: The funds will be utilized to provide technical assistance, enhancing the credibility and sustainability of electoral reforms.
2. Citizen Engagement: Initiatives will be launched to engage the citizens of Sierra Leone actively. This includes efforts to raise awareness, foster buy-in, and cultivate ownership of the ongoing electoral review process.
International and Sierra Leonean legal analysts will be funded to offer expert support to Parliament and political parties. Their role is crucial in implementing recommendations for electoral reform, as outlined in the final report by the Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield expressed hope that the combined efforts of technical, legal, and civil society assistance would position Sierra Leone as a model for democracy, particularly in a time that demands steadfast commitment to democratic principles.
The United States’ financial commitment underscores its dedication to supporting democratic processes globally, with a specific focus on Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its electoral systems and promote political dialogue. The investment reflects a collaborative approach to fostering positive change and reinforcing democratic values in the region.
