By George M. O. Williams
Freetown, Sierra Leone – The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) celebrated its 30th anniversary on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, with a symposium held at the Foreign Affairs Academy at Tower Hill in Freetown. The event, themed “NCD@30: Towards the Promotion of Democratic Good Governance in Sierra Leone”, brought together dignitaries, students, journalists, and members of the public.
In her keynote address, NCD Chairperson Marian Angela Kamara reflected on the commission’s journey since its establishment under NPRC Decree No. 15 of 1994. She highlighted the critical role NCD played in transitioning Sierra Leone towards democratic governance during the country’s post-conflict era.
“Sierra Leone recognized the need to establish institutions that would lay the foundation for democracy,” Kamara stated. “NCD was mandated to drive the process that would restore democratic governance, including organizing consultative meetings that paved the way for the 1996 elections.”
Dr. Mamodu Idris Tarawallie, Head of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), also addressed the gathering. He emphasized the importance of community engagement in fostering democracy, noting that IDEA has empowered local stakeholders to educate communities about democratic principles.
The symposium underscored NCD’s commitment to promoting good governance and strengthening democracy in Sierra Leone, marking three decades of impactful contributions to the nation’s political development.