By George M.O. Williams
The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched an intensive five-day training program on electoral mediation strategies for staff of Sierra Leone’s Political Party Regulations Commission (PPRC). The program, which commenced on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, aims to equip PPRC staff with the tools to manage political conflicts and foster peace before, during, and after elections.
The event brought together key representatives from the UNDP, the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), and KAIPTC, marking another milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey toward political stability and effective conflict resolution.
Enhancing Mediation Skills
PPRC Executive Secretary Olushogo A. David, in his opening remarks, underscored the critical role of the training in addressing political disputes. He reflected on the 2018 elections, where unresolved conflicts highlighted the need for capacity-building initiatives. David expressed gratitude to the UNDP for its continued support, lauding its dedication to staff development and the Commission’s transformation.
“This training offers a unique opportunity for our staff to grow in their roles as mediators, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to our mission of ensuring peace among political parties,” David stated.
A Legacy of Peacebuilding
Mustapha Abdallah, Head of the Peace Support Operations Program at KAIPTC, highlighted Ghana’s enduring commitment to Sierra Leone’s peacebuilding efforts. He noted KAIPTC’s pivotal role in the country’s post-conflict reforms, including peace negotiations and security sector programs earlier this year.
“Political conflict has the potential to destabilize nations. This training is vital in equipping the PPRC with tools to mediate and prevent such conflicts effectively,” Abdallah remarked, reinforcing the importance of political stability in Sierra Leone’s development.
UNDP’s Continued Partnership
UNDP’s Chief Technical Advisor, George Baratashvili, praised the ongoing collaboration between the UNDP and PPRC, which has fostered dialogue and peaceful elections through initiatives like the peace pledge.
“This training is a crucial part of our strategy to strengthen the Inter-Party Dialogue Framework and ensure that political disputes are resolved constructively,” Baratashvili said. He urged participants to fully immerse themselves in the program, emphasizing its potential to bolster their ability to manage political and peace processes.
The Role of Electoral Mediation
ECSL Northern Region Electoral Commissioner Abubakarr Koroma also emphasized the importance of expert mediation in mitigating conflicts arising from the electoral process.
“Elections have the potential to exacerbate social tensions and provoke instability, especially when processes are perceived as unfair. Mediation skills are essential for maintaining peace and democratic stability,” Koroma said, expressing optimism that the training would enhance Sierra Leone’s capacity for peaceful electoral processes.
Commitment to Democratic Stability
The KAIPTC-UNDP initiative marks a significant step forward in empowering Sierra Leone’s institutions to navigate political challenges effectively. By equipping PPRC staff with advanced mediation skills, the program reinforces the country’s commitment to peace, democracy, and sustainable development.
Participants are expected to emerge from the training better prepared to mediate political conflicts, paving the way for peaceful elections and a stable political landscape in Sierra Leone.