EU delegation holds talks with parliamentarians

Freetown, July 30 (SLENA): In preparedness the forthcoming November elections, the European Union delegation headed by Jean-Pierre Reymondet-Commoy has met with the leadership of parliament to explore the possibility of sending EU observer mission for the presidential, parliamentary and local council elections late this year. (Photo: Leadership interacting with EU Delegates in Parliament)

Welcoming the delegates on behalf of the Speaker and Members of Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Sorie, Chairman Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Food Security informed the delegation that Parliament is the biggest beneficiary in the forthcoming elections as it depicts the highest point of representation in the country, adding that election is an expression of the will of the people, a necessary ingredient for peace, stabilit, and the promotion of democracy and good governance.

Responding, Head of delegates, Ambassador Jean-Pierre Reymondet-Commoy first expressed condolence for the sudden death of the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Victor Chukuma Johnson and informed the leadership of the house that the advance election observer team has already held discussions with HE Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, NEC, PPRC, Political Parties, Cabinet Ministers and other stakeholders to ascertain the feasibility of sending an observation team, taking into consideration the memorandum of understanding guaranteeing security of personnel and access to information relating to all parties.

Members said it would have been prudent if EU had observed the Biometric Voter Registration process which was validated in Brussels, and the attendant challenges of the process.

Parliament further told the EU delegation that this was the first time Sierra Leoneans would be voting for the Presidency, Parliamentarians, Mayorship, District Chairmen and Councilors on the same day.

SB/HOP/SLENA

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