Sierra Leone elections: Six-month extension implications and challenges

This is a speech by Dr Dennis Bright, Country Director at Institut Regional de Cooperation and Commissioner at Commission for the Consolidation of Peace in Sierra Leone.

After giving an overview of Sierra Leone's election history, he analyses the different reactions to the six-month extension which was granted to the government to hold elections.  He then examines different scenarios of what could happen during these additional months.  For example, the Revolutionary United Front may be more strongly targeted or politicians may begin interpreting the war along tribal or regional lines for electoral gains.

Dr Bright suggests national, inclusive consultations are held in this period to draw up a 'master plan' for Sierra Leone as a way forward.  Opposition groups in exile and diaspora should also be brought back in an effort to achieve national reconciliation.