The Sierra Leone Police have extended an invitation to civil society organizations (CSOs) to discuss their planned protest on December 10, 2024, aimed at pressuring the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to release disaggregated results of the June 24, 2023, multi-tier elections at the polling station level.

In a letter dated November 30, 2024, addressed to the Concern Sierra Leoneans group, the police acknowledged receipt of their request for security during the planned demonstration.

The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has called for a meeting to deliberate on the matter, scheduled as follows:

Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Time: 10:00 AM

Venue: Police Headquarters, George Street, Freetown

The stated purpose of the meeting is to discuss the content of the Concern Sierra Leoneans’ letter and ensure clarity on the planned protest.

Concern Sierra Leoneans, in their correspondence, emphasized their demand for the ECSL to publish the disaggregated election results by polling station level before December 9, 2024.

The group highlighted its constitutional right to peacefully assemble under Section 14(1) of the Sierra Leone Constitution, stressing the importance of accountability and transparency in electoral processes.

The group has identified 38 assembly points, including the ECSL headquarters at Tower Hill, Freetown, and other regional offices, where participants plan to convene if their demands are unmet.

While requesting police presence, Concern Sierra Leoneans also urged the Sierra Leone Police to uphold their professionalism and reputation as “The Force for Good.”

The group expressed concerns about previous demonstrations turning violent due to alleged unprofessional police tactics.

“We expect the police to behave in a professional manner and not attack protesters with batons, tear gas, or live rounds,” the letter stated.