The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) hosted a high-level stakeholder engagement on Friday, July 10, to discuss civil and voter registration processes. Requested by the All People’s Congress (APC) and facilitated by the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), the meeting addressed concerns regarding the upcoming registration. NCRA Director Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi reaffirmed the government's view of "civil registration and voter registration as two essential pillars of democratic governance and national stability." During the engagement, Massaquoi stated the NCRA would continue working closely with the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to ensure "the National Identification Number (NIN) system provides a reliable foundation for compiling an accurate and credible voter register." He added that "the NCRA remains committed to conducting a process that is credible, inclusive and transparent." The Authority’s readiness to remain a transparent, cooperative, and accountable institution in support of credible civil registration and voter registration processes that inspire public confidence and strengthen Sierra Leone’s democratic governance was also reaffirmed.
Addressing Registration Concerns
Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi addressed concerns raised by the All People’s Congress (APC) regarding the integrity, transparency, and pace of the ongoing National Identification and Civil Registration exercise, specifically its relationship with the country’s voter registration process. Mr. Massaquoi explained the safeguards, operational systems, and collaborative mechanisms guiding the Authority’s work. He detailed how these mechanisms are designed to uphold the integrity of the registration processes. The Director General further elaborated on the various checks and balances in place to ensure accuracy and prevent irregularities. He reiterated that the Authority remains committed to openness, accountability, and collaboration with all political parties and stakeholders throughout the implementation process. The Joint Mission of International Moral Guarantors visited Sierra Leone between April 13 and 17, 2026, ahead of these discussions, showing the international community's interest in the integrity of these processes.
Praise for Leadership
Kelfala Marrah commended Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi for his proactive leadership since assuming office. Rev. Fornah, National Secretary General of the Inter-Religious Council, also praised the Director General's leadership style, noting his dedication to fostering an open and collaborative environment. ICPNC Executive Secretary, Hawa Sally Samai, described his stewardship of the NCRA as "mature, inclusive and exemplary," noting his efforts to engage all parties. Samai emphasized "the importance of sustained dialogue among political parties, election management bodies and state institutions in maintaining peace, promoting national cohesion and safeguarding Sierra Leone’s democratic stability ahead of future electoral processes." Director General Massaquoi reiterated that the Authority remains committed to "openness, accountability and collaboration with all political parties and stakeholders throughout the implementation process." He previously stated that "the NCRA remains committed to conducting a process that is credible, inclusive and transparent," a commitment that was echoed throughout the meeting.
Importance of Dialogue
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue consultations among stakeholders as the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity and the Tripartite Committee recommendations progresses. This engagement forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen national unity, build confidence in Sierra Leone’s electoral processes, and monitor the progress of the Agreement for National Unity and the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee. Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) Executive Secretary, Hawa Sally Samai, reiterated the importance of ongoing discussions. Samai stated, "the importance of sustained dialogue among political parties, election management bodies and state institutions in maintaining peace, promoting national cohesion and safeguarding Sierra Leone’s democratic stability ahead of future electoral processes." She showed that such continuous engagement is vital for ensuring public trust and achieving a stable democratic future for Sierra Leone.
