The Forum of Sierra Leonean Youth Network (FoSLYN) has raised concerns over what it describes as the slow implementation of the Tripartite Committee Recommendations, with particular emphasis on Recommendation 20 of the Agreement for National Unity (ANU), which it says is critical to restoring public confidence in democratic governance and electoral processes.
In a press release issued in Freetown, FoSLYN noted that the continued delay in implementing key provisions of the Tripartite Agreement has heightened anxiety among young people across the country, who believe the current national situation requires urgent political attention, goodwill, and constructive dialogue.
According to the youth network, the implementation of the recommendations is widely viewed as central to rebuilding trust among citizens, development partners, and the international community. The organization warned that unresolved governance and electoral concerns risk undermining international cooperation efforts, including the proposed Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact, as well as engagements with the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, visa restrictions affecting Sierra Leoneans, and broader diplomatic relations.
FoSLYN stressed that these challenges directly impact young people’s access to education, mobility, employment, and economic opportunities, adding that many citizens see the tripartite process as a vital pathway toward political stability, democratic consolidation, and economic recovery.
The organization called on policymakers and parliamentary leadership particularly the opposition to prioritize accountability, transparency, and sustained dialogue on the implementation of the recommendations, noting that national unity and inclusive governance remain essential for meaningful progress.
FoSLYN also referenced the recent State Opening Debate in Parliament, during which Hon. Alpha Ben Mansaray, MP for Moyamba District, raised concerns regarding the status of the Agreement for National Unity. The group described the present moment as timely, especially as registered political parties prepare for their respective delegates’ conferences, which it said must be anchored on confidence in the electoral framework.
At the centre of its concerns is Recommendation 20 of the Tripartite Committee Report, which calls for the establishment of a dedicated Parliamentary Oversight Committee on electoral matters, comprising representatives of all political parties in Parliament and chaired by a member of the opposition. The Committee is also expected to review each electoral cycle, assess preparedness, and guide legislative reforms, while Parliament holds annual debates on the Electoral Commission’s report in line with the 1991 Constitution.
FoSLYN underscored the urgency of constituting the committee without further delay, warning that postponement is untenable as the country approaches another electoral cycle already marked by suspicion, uncertainty, and declining public trust.
The youth body cautioned that last-minute electoral reforms have historically triggered internal dissent, public controversy, and political tension, noting that political parties are often dissatisfied with late-stage amendments to electoral rules.
FoSLYN therefore urged the leadership of Parliament to take decisive action and initiate the legislative process for the implementation of Recommendation 20 following Parliament’s reconvening, stressing that the timely establishment of the Oversight Committee would significantly strengthen democratic integrity and rebuild public confidence.
The organization concluded by calling on all stakeholders including government, opposition parties, civil society, and international partners to collaborate in fully implementing the Tripartite Recommendations, strengthening democratic institutions, and creating a stable political environment that delivers real opportunities for Sierra Leone’s youth.
FoSLYN, established in 2006 by a group of university students, works with young people across Sierra Leone on peacebuilding, democracy, human rights, health education, WASH in schools, climate justice, and youth empowerment through partnerships with national and international institutions.
