By SKS
On June 14, 2025, the Centre for Electoral and Civic Education (CECE) officially launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revitalizing civic participation and strengthening democratic values across Sierra Leone.
Dubbed the “Strong Voices and Safe Choices” campaign, this new effort seeks to encourage Sierra Leoneans to actively engage in their nation’s electoral process, uphold civic responsibility, and promote human rights.
The launch event was attended by a diverse group of civil society leaders, government officials, development partners, and representatives from various sectors committed to fostering an inclusive, transparent, and accountable electoral environment.
The occasion marked a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s ongoing journey toward consolidating democracy and ensuring that every citizen’s voice counts.
In his keynote address, CECE’s Executive Director, Macksood Gibril Sesay, expressed optimism about the campaign’s potential to inspire meaningful civic engagement, particularly among youth and marginalized groups. “Our democracy thrives when every voice is heard and every choice is respected,” Sesay stated. “This campaign is a call for Sierra Leoneans to actively participate in shaping their future.”
Sesay reflected on the evolution of civil society in Sierra Leone since the end of the civil war, acknowledging both past achievements and current challenges. He highlighted that, historically, civil society organizations played a pivotal role in restoring peace and laying the foundation for democracy. However, in recent years, their influence has waned due to increased regulatory constraints and a decline in international support. “Civil society must remain vigilant and courageous, advocating for truth, justice, and integrity, especially in challenging times,” he emphasized.
The campaign’s core objectives are to promote informed voting, foster civic responsibility, and safeguard human rights—aligning closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16, which emphasizes peace, justice, and strong institutions. Sesay underscored the vital importance of integrity in electoral processes, stating that “a credible election is the foundation of a strong democracy and sustainable peace.” This message resonates deeply in a country that has faced electoral disputes and political tensions in the past.
Sesay who is a former Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) also emphasized the importance of electoral reforms and the need for transparency and public trust. “While Sierra Leone has made significant progress through reforms over the past two decades, issues of trust and integrity remain critical,” he noted. “We must uphold the principles of honesty, patriotism, and accountability to ensure our electoral processes reflect the will of the people.”
He further pointed out that the integrity of Sierra Leone’s electoral system hinges not only on laws and procedures but also on the commitment of individuals to uphold the highest standards of conduct. Past elections have shown that strong institutions and ethical leadership are essential for maintaining public confidence.
The launch also stressed the importance of civic education and the protection of human rights. Sesay called on civil society organizations to intensify efforts in educating citizens about their rights—such as the right to free speech, participation in governance, and protection against discrimination. “Understanding and respecting human rights is essential for building a just and inclusive society,” he remarked.
The “Strong Voices and Safe Choices” campaign signifies a renewed commitment to empowering Sierra Leoneans to participate responsibly in democratic processes. It aims to foster a culture of active citizenship, integrity, and accountability—paving the way for a more resilient democracy and lasting peace.
As Sesay concluded, he urged collective action: “Together, we can foster a culture of active citizenship and integrity that will strengthen our democracy and contribute to lasting peace and development.” This initiative underscores Sierra Leone’s dedication to SDG 16 by promoting peaceful, just, and inclusive societies through civic engagement and institutional strengthening.
The campaign also represents a collective step toward ensuring that democracy in Sierra Leone remains responsive to the needs of all citizens, fostering a society where voices are heard, choices are protected, and institutions are robust.
Born in Freetown in the 1960s, Sesay is a seasoned civic leader with extensive experience in electoral processes and civic education.
As a former teacher, he joined Sierra Leone’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) in 2006, serving as its first Legal Affairs Officer and later as Director of the Legal, Research, and Documentation Department. His contributions include key roles in electoral legal reforms, including the passage of the Elections Act in 2012. From 2015 to 2020, he served as Electoral Commissioner for Sierra Leone’s northern region. In 2020, he founded the Centre for Electoral and Civic Education, which he now heads.
