Sierra Leone
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:35:08 UTC
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
c. The Electoral Management Body
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:35:30 UTC
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:36:50 UTC
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
a. Total population
Comments: Total population against land zise
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:37:50 UTC
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: ANTHONY EKPEDZOR
b. Job Title: SNR. ELECTORAL OFFICER
c. Organisation: ELECTORAL COMMISSION OF GHANA
d. Contact Address. P. O. BOX M-214. ACCRA GHANA
e. Telephone: 021-228421
f. Facsimile: 021-232577
g. Email: ekpedzor@yahoo.co.uk
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:06:51 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
Comments: SECTION 33,1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:08:14 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
Comments: SECTION 33 1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:10:02 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:11:04 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:12:17 UTC
DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
Comments: SECTION 33 OF 1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:20:18 UTC
DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:14:16 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:14:59 UTC
DD100 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
f. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:18:12 UTC
DD101 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
f. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:18:53 UTC
DD102 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
d. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:19:32 UTC
DD103 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
d. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:20:03 UTC
DD104 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
d. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:20:30 UTC
DD105 Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:21:09 UTC
DD106 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?
a. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms
f. Other (specify)
Comments: FOR ITEM 'F' NGOS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:22:42 UTC
DD107 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:23:33 UTC
DD108 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:24:08 UTC
DD109 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
a. Information booklets
b. Leaflets and pamphlets
c. Radio broadcasts
d. TV broadcasts
e. Press advertisements
g. Other(specify)
Comments: FOR 'G' FOCUSED GROUP MEETINGS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:26:34 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:15:32 UTC
DD110 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
i. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:28:18 UTC
DD111 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
i. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:28:54 UTC
DD112 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
g. None
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:31:55 UTC
DD115 What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:34:35 UTC
DD117 What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-13 20:38:06 UTC
DD118 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
d. No campaign organisations
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:40:08 UTC
DD119 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:41:36 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:16:19 UTC
DD120 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:42:05 UTC
DD121 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
b. Free media access
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:42:42 UTC
DD122 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:44:27 UTC
DD123 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:45:04 UTC
DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?
a. NO CRITERIA SET UP
Comments: RANDOME MEDIA EDUCATION IS PROVIDED ACROSS THE COUNTRY
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:47:31 UTC
DD125 Is the government permitted to campaign either in favour of or against any specific outcome to a referendum, initiatives or recall vote?
a. Yes
Comments: THAT IS THE ROUTINE
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:48:19 UTC
DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?
a. THE MEDIAHASTOBE CAUTIOUS IN ITS APPROACH NOT TO DISCREDIT THE GOVERNMENT OPENLY
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:49:35 UTC
DD127 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:50:34 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1ST DECEMBER 1991
Comments: SECTION 33 OF 1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:22:41 UTC
DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1ST DECEMBER 1991
Comments: SECTION 33 OF 1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:23:59 UTC
DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
b. Independent electoral commission
Source: SECTION 33 OF 1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:17:58 UTC
DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
a. Yes
Comments: THE NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISION (NEC IS RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING ALL PUBLIC ELECTIONS AND REFERENDA
Source: SECTION 33 OF 1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:26:49 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Source: SECTION 33 OF 1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:19:04 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 13:59:23 UTC
DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:00:08 UTC
DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:00:43 UTC
DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:01:12 UTC
DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:02:16 UTC
DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:02:58 UTC
DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:03:27 UTC
DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:04:16 UTC
DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:30:43 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Comments: ONLY ENTRENCHED PROVISIONS IN THE CONSTITUTION (E.G. ISSUE OF PARAMOUNT CHIEFTAINCY NEEDS A REFERENDUM)
Source: 1991 CONSTITUTION OF SIERRA LEONE
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:29:18 UTC
DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
k. None
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:35:23 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
b. Adoption of international treaties
c. Transfer of authority to international bodies
f. Devolution
g. Civil service
i. Other public policy issues
Comments: ORDINARY PROVISIONS IN THE 1991 CONSTITUTION ARE NOT SUBJECT TO REFERENDUM
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:36:53 UTC
DD30 Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:37:52 UTC
DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
a. Government
f. Other (specify)
Comments: THE CONSTITUTION
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:38:35 UTC
DD32 Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
a. Government (specify department)
Comments: LAW OFFICER DEPT. (STATE ATTORNEY)
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:33:51 UTC
DD33 Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:34:19 UTC
DD34 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
a. The title of the proposal
c. An explanatory text
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:34:14 UTC
DD35 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:35:01 UTC
DD36 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
b. Independent electoral commission
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:35:30 UTC
DD37 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
f. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:36:02 UTC
DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
a. Turnout quorum OVER WHELMING MAJORITY
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:37:02 UTC
DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
d. Not applicable NONE
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:38:03 UTC
DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
a. Simple majority (>50%)
Last updated: 2005-06-08 14:42:34 UTC
DD41 What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:38:52 UTC
DD42 In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election?
Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
a. Citizenship
e. Voting age
Comments: QUALIFICATION TO VOTE IS LIMITED TO CITIZENS AND THOSE WHO ARE 18 YEARS AND ABOVE AND OF SOUND MIND
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:40:52 UTC
DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
a. Always
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:41:48 UTC
DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
c. Never
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:40:16 UTC
DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:48:23 UTC
DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:41:28 UTC
DD47 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
b. Adoption of international treaties
c. Transfer of authority
d. National sovereignty, national self-determination
f. Devolution
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:44:41 UTC
DD48 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
k. None
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:44:04 UTC
DD49 Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
a. A number of individuals
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:46:31 UTC
DD50 Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:46:48 UTC
DD51 What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
a. Proposed title
b. General explanation of purpose
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:47:28 UTC
DD52 Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
a. Proponents of the initiative
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:48:03 UTC
DD53 Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
f. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-13 14:50:21 UTC
DD56 Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
a. An automatic check is part of the initiative process
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:54:14 UTC
DD57 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
e. Judiciary
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:54:52 UTC
DD58 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
e. Other (specify)
Comments: IN THE EVENT OF AN OBJECTION
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:56:06 UTC
DD61 What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
b. Both the initiative and the alternative proposal are qualified for the ballot, and are put to a vote on the same day
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:58:32 UTC
DD62 When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
b. To accept one proposal only
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:01:34 UTC
DD63 Who decides the final ballot text?
b. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:03:42 UTC
DD64 Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
a. Within a certain time limit (specify)
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:04:33 UTC
DD65 Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
k. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:07:43 UTC
DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:08:45 UTC
DD68 If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
d. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:09:28 UTC
DD69 When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
c. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:10:12 UTC
DD70 If a separate ballot to replace an individual who has been recalled takes place, how soon after the recall ballot is it held?
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:10:44 UTC
DD71 Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
c. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:11:47 UTC
DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable NOT APPLICABLE
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:12:43 UTC
DD73 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable NOT APPLICABLE
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:14:16 UTC
DD74 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable NOT APPLICABLE
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:14:57 UTC
DD75 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable NOT APPLICABLE
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:16:13 UTC
DD76 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
c. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:18:10 UTC
DD77 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
c. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:19:37 UTC
DD78 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
c. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:20:04 UTC
DD79 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
c. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:20:58 UTC
DD80 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:21:44 UTC
DD81 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:22:34 UTC
DD82 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:23:09 UTC
DD83 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:23:43 UTC
DD84 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a recall?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:24:44 UTC
DD85 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
c. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:25:29 UTC
DD87 Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:53:46 UTC
DD88 Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:54:33 UTC
DD89 Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:55:36 UTC
DD90 Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 14:59:13 UTC
DD91 Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
g. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:10:34 UTC
DD92 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:11:07 UTC
DD93 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:12:12 UTC
DD94 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:13:05 UTC
DD95 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:15:17 UTC
DD96 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
e. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:15:51 UTC
DD97 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
f. Not applicable
Comments: NOT PART OF SIERRA LEONE LAWS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 15:16:33 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution National Electoral Commission
b. Full Address 15 Wallace Johnson St. Freetown. Sierra Leone
c. Telephone 228385/228650/227493/227619/223984
d. Facsimile (232-22)-223984
e. Email nec@sierratel.sl
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Vacant - Chief Electoral Commissioner/Chairman
h. Information Officer Pat Sheriff
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections English
Comments: K.M. Kpakiwa, Executive Secretary
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:28:57 UTC
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
b. Regional level
c. Local level
Comments: Chiefdom elections are supervised by the National Electoral Commission
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:30:31 UTC
EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
f. Other
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:31:15 UTC
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
c. The legislature
f. Donors
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:31:41 UTC
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
g. Other
Comments: The Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:33:05 UTC
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
b. For a term of _________ years
Comments: For a term of 5 years.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:33:28 UTC
EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
b. Legislative appointment
d. Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment
Last updated: Fri, 05 Oct 2001 09:23:51 GMT
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: 12000000
Comments: ca 12 000 000 USD
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:52:32 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 2,500,000
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:52:32 UTC
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
a. Head of State is the Head of Government
Comments: a) Head of State is the Head of Government
Source: Constitution of Sierra Leone
Last updated: 2005-06-23 10:10:05 UTC
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
a. Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: Directly elected in general elections (absolute majority with 2nd round if necessary).
Source: Constitution of Sierra Leone
Last updated: 2005-06-23 10:12:45 UTC
ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes
Comments: Mr. A. Tijan Kabbah
Source: 2002 Presidential Election Result Gazzet
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:01:51 UTC
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
a. One chamber
Comments: There shall a legislature of Sierra Leone which shall be known as Parliament and shall consist of the Prresident, the Speaker and members of Parliament
Source: Chapter VI - The LEGISLATURE Part I - Composition of Parliament 73. (1)
Last updated: 2005-06-30 08:57:13 UTC
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
a. Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: Representation of the people allows every citizen of SL being 18 years of age and of sound mind shall have the right to vote and accordingly shall be entitled to be registered as a voter for the purposes of public elections and referenda. At any public elections orreferenda, voting shall be by secret ballot.
Source: Chapter IV - Representation of the People. Article 31 Registration of Voters (qualification to be registered and to vote)and Article 36. Secret Ballot
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:33:09 UTC
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
k. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:30:51 UTC
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
c. Largest Remainder Method (Quota)
Comments: Pure proportional representation system at the national level, for the 68 ordinary members. The 12 paramount chief members are elected according to plurality system in single member districts.
Source: The Electoral Laws Act 2002 Section 57 (2) Formula for Allocating Seats Under the District Block Representation System
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:35:42 UTC
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
b. Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: The basis of allocating seats to political parties under the district block representation system will be the total number of valid votes cast in each district, referred to as the total district votes. The total district will be obtained by adding up the valid votes from all the polling stations in the district.
Source: The Electoral Laws Act 2002 Section 57 (2) Formula for Allocating Seats Under the District Block Representation System
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:40:44 UTC
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:41:07 UTC
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Comments: Pure proportional representation system at the national level, for the 68 ordinary members. The 12 paramount chief members are elected according to plurality system in single member districts.
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:45:25 UTC
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:46:16 UTC
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
c. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: SL Constitution
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:47:17 UTC
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:47:54 UTC
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
b. Specify the percentage:
Comments: The basis of allocating seats to political parties under the district block representation system will be the total number of valid votes cast in each district, referred to as the total district votes. The total district will be obtained by adding up the valid votes from all the polling stations in the district. In the section "population quota" means the nuimber obtained by dividing the number of inhabitants of SL by the number of constituencies into which SL is divided.
Source: The Electoral Laws Act 2002 Section 57 (2) Formula for Allocating Seats Under the District Block Representation System
Last updated: 2005-06-28 11:10:20 UTC
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
b. Specify the percentage:
Comments: The basis of allocating seats to political parties under the district block representation system will be the total number of valid votes cast in each district, referred to as the total district votes. The total district will be obtained by adding up the valid votes from all the polling stations in the district. In the section "population quota" means the nuimber obtained by dividing the number of inhabitants of SL by the number of constituencies into which SL is divided.
Source: The Electoral Laws Act 2002 Section 57 (2) Formula for Allocating Seats Under the District Block Representation System. Article 38 (6) of the SL Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-06-28 11:09:52 UTC
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
b. Specify the percentage:
Comments: The basis of allocating seats to political parties under the district block representation system will be the total number of valid votes cast in each district, referred to as the total district votes. The total district will be obtained by adding up the valid votes from all the polling stations in the district.
Source: The Electoral Laws Act 2002 Section 57 (2) Formula for Allocating Seats Under the District Block Representation System
Last updated: 2005-06-28 11:05:18 UTC
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-28 10:56:52 UTC
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: 5 years intervals
Source: Article 46 of the Constitution of SL Tenure of office of President, etc.
Last updated: 2005-06-28 11:00:38 UTC
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-28 11:01:04 UTC
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
d. Regulations or administrative rules
Comments: The National Electoral Commission derives its authority fron the Constitution of Sierra Leone
Last updated: 2005-06-30 08:59:35 UTC
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later
Source: Electoral Laws 2003
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:03:21 UTC
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Comments: a) Representation of the people allows every citizen of Sierra Leone being 18 years of age and of sound mind shall have the right to vote and accordingly shall be entitled to be registered as a voter for the purposes of public elections and referenda. At any public elections or referenda, voting shall be by secret ballot. There is no sanction on any one who does not vote in an election.
Source: Chapter IV - Representation of the People. Article 31 Registration of Voters (qualification to be registered and to vote) and Article 36. Secret Ballot
Last updated: 2006-11-21 21:02:13 UTC
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
b. National elections are held on the same day as regional and local elections
Comments: Presidential (national) and Parliamentary (constituencies) elections are held on the same day
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:11:10 UTC
LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: Fri, 05 Oct 2001 08:49:01 GMT
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
b. EMB
Comments: First level of formal electoral disputes may imply disagreements at the polling station level where officials of the Electoral Comission have cause to resolve emerging problems
Source: In the event of 21 days after the declaration of elections result and its publication in the gazzet, any agrieved party is obliged to file a casein the High Court for the adjudication of the case.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:16:17 UTC
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:16:50 UTC
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
b. Parties
c. Voters
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:17:33 UTC
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: ANTHONY EKPEDZOR
b. Job Title: SNR. ELECTORAL OFFICER
c. Organisation: ELECTORAL COMMISSION OF GHANA
d. Contact Address: P. O. BOX M-214, ACCRA GHANA
e. Telephone: 021-228421
f. Facsimile: 021-232577
g. Email: ekpedzor@yahoo.co.uk
Last updated: 2005-06-09 11:00:03 UTC
ME02 Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
b. Government owned
c. Privately owned
Comments: PUBLICLY OWNED - 98.1 GOVERNMENT OWNED - SLBS PRIVATELY OWNED - KISI04, SKY RADIO
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME03 Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
b. Government owned
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 11:35:04 UTC
ME04 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
b. Government owned
c. Privately owned
d. Owned by political parties
Last updated: 2005-06-09 11:35:33 UTC
ME05 Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
c. Competition exists between government newspaper and at least one private newspaper
Last updated: 2005-06-09 11:36:22 UTC
ME06 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
a. Over 60%
Comments: OVER 60% - RADIO UNAMSIL (UNRADIO) LESS THAN 30% - COMMUNITY RADIO
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME08 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
c. Less than 30%
Last updated: 2005-06-09 11:41:26 UTC
ME09 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
b. Private radio
e. Print media
Comments: PRIVATE TELEVISION ARE YET TO BE DEVELOPED
Last updated: 2005-06-09 11:45:40 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
a. a
Comments: NONE THE SIERRA LEONE ASSOCIATION OF JOURNALIST HAS EMBARKED ON MOVES TO ERADICATE THE PUBLIC INFORMATION ACT WHICH DEBARS PUBLIC ITS ACCESS TO PUBLIC INFORMATION.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
a. N
Comments: GOVERNMENT AS WELL AS OTHER STAKEHOLDERS, JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION AND CIVIL SOCIETY ARE WORKING OUT LAWS TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME14 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the public television stations?
b. 30% to 60%
Last updated: 2005-06-09 11:54:16 UTC
ME15 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
b. 30% to 60%
Comments: 30% TO 60% - SLBS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 11:57:05 UTC
ME16 In your opinion, upon which types of media at national level in your country do citizens most rely as a source of information? Mark the most important source with 1, and the second most important source with 2:
a. Public radio
b. Government radio
c. Private radio
e. Government television
g. Print media
Comments: PUBLIC RADIO - 2 GOVT RADIO - 1 PRIVATE RADIO - 2 GOVT TV - 1 PRINT MEDIA - 2
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME17 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
b. Private radio
e. Print media
Comments: PRIVATE TELEVISION AREYET TO BE DEVELOPED
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:02:47 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
a. a
Comments: NONE
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:04:43 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
a. T
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME20 Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
a. Government
Comments: INDEPENDENT REGULATOR (INDEPENDENT MEDIA COMMISSION HAS THE LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY BUT OFTEN GOVT HAS OVERSIGHT RESPONSIBILITY)
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:08:43 UTC
ME21 Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
c. Non governmental organisations
Comments: IT IS OPENED TO ALL INSTITUTIONS AND EVERY BODY AS LONG AS YOU FULFILL THE CONDITIONS
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:16:32 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
a. a
Comments: THE PUBLIC ORDER ACT OF 1965
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:17:36 UTC
ME23 Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
a. Yes
Comments: MR. PAUL KAMARA, PROPRIETOR AND MANAGINGH EDITOR OF 'FOR DI PEOPLE' NEWS PAPER
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:19:17 UTC
ME24 What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?
d. No regulation
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:19:51 UTC
ME28 What form does the authority, if any, of the EMB to enforce remedies or sanctions against the media in case of breach of the rules on media coverage of elections take
a. Enforcement of a right of reply, correction or retraction
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:22:32 UTC
ME29 Do political parties or candidates have a right to have their replies to inaccurate or misleading media coverage published promptly and free of charge?
b. No
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:23:19 UTC
ME30 What is the legal liability of the media if they report unlawful statements by candidates during election campaigns (e.g. defamatory or inflammatory speeches)?
a. Criminal prosecution
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:24:33 UTC
ME31 Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections?
Please send us a copy.
b. No
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:25:09 UTC
ME34 Which of the following types of radio stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:27:47 UTC
ME35 Which of the following types of television stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:28:44 UTC
ME36 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide political parties with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:29:53 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:30:37 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:31:41 UTC
ME42 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:39:31 UTC
ME43 Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time for national election campaigns?
b. Government owned
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:40:36 UTC
ME44 Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
b. Government owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:41:00 UTC
ME45 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide individual candidates (legislative) with printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:41:33 UTC
ME46 What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
i. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:42:17 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
b. There are no laws in this regard X
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
b. The law does not specify any limits X
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:47:00 UTC
ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?
a. ......... N
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:41:30 UTC
ME61 Which of the following information in reporting the results of opinion polls are required to be disclosed by law?
g. None
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:48:32 UTC
ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:49:11 UTC
ME63 Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?
d. No exit polls conducted to date
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:50:15 UTC
ME64 If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:51:07 UTC
ME65 When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?
b. After all polls close, before official results are available
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:51:51 UTC
ME66 Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
b. No
Comments: ONE COULD BE SANCTIONED AND HAULED BEFORE COURT
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:53:31 UTC
ME67 What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
b. A press officer
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:54:12 UTC
ME68 Have staff responsible for media relations received training for this work?
b. No
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:55:17 UTC
ME69 Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
a. Media packs/press kits
b. Press releases
c. Press conferences/briefings
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:56:04 UTC
ME70 Has the EMB provided or facilitated training for journalists in how the electoral process works?
a. Yes
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:57:16 UTC
ME71 Which of the following types of radio stations, provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
b. Government owned
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:58:02 UTC
ME72 Which of the following television stations provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
b. Government owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:58:30 UTC
ME73 Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide free print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
b. Government owned
d. Owned by political parties
Last updated: 2005-06-09 12:59:30 UTC
ME74 Which of the following types of radio stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:00:20 UTC
ME75 Which of the following types of television stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:04:04 UTC
ME76 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide paid broadcast time or print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:04:48 UTC
ME77 What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
d. It monitors the media coverage of its own activities.
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:06:08 UTC
ME78 Which of the following do you judge to be significant barriers to the EMB in communicating its message to the media?
a. Insufficient staff with responsibility for media relations
b. Insufficient training of staff with responsibility for media relations
c. Cost of paid advertising limiting dissemination of voter education messages
Last updated: 2005-06-09 13:07:10 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)
b. Deposit requirement (specify amount)
c. Regional distribution requirement
Comments: Deposit requirement: 250 USD
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:15:01 UTC
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:15:22 UTC
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
f. Registration
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:16:09 UTC
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
k. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:16:42 UTC
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
d. Residence
e. Citizenship of parents
f. Registration
h. Minimum level of education
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:17:13 UTC
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
c. Criminal record
d. Naturalization
e. Offences against electoral law
f. Holding of military office
g. Holding of government office
h. Bankruptcy or Insolvency
i. Unpaid debt
j. Physical health problems
k. Mental health problems
m. Citizenship of parents
n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:18:19 UTC
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
c. Criminal record
d. Naturalization
e. Offences against electoral law
f. Holding of military office
g. Holding of government office
h. Bankruptcy or insolvency
k. Mental health problems
m. Citizenship of parents
Last updated: Fri, 05 Oct 2001 10:10:15 GMT
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
c. In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:19:03 UTC
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:19:37 UTC
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:20:07 UTC
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
e. Not Applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:20:39 UTC
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
c. Indirect
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Last updated: 2006-11-20 14:28:20 UTC
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
d. Not Applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:26:26 UTC
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
e. Not Applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:21:38 UTC
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
d. Based on number of candidates put forward in present election
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Last updated: 2006-11-20 14:28:20 UTC
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
e. Not Applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:22:30 UTC
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:22:50 UTC
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
d. Not Applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:23:23 UTC
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of party contributions received
b. Public disclosure of party expenditure
c. Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:24:22 UTC
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)
f. Same ballot papers used nationwide
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
h. Party symbols in color
j. Candidate photos in color
m. Organized alphabetically
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official
r. Other
Comments: For the first time in the electoral history of Sierra Leone, tactile ballots were used for the visually impaired (the blind and visually challenged) to vote independently without any support in identifying their choice of candidate to vote for.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:27:34 UTC
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
s. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-23 10:21:13 UTC
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)
d. Categorical (only possible to make one mark)
f. Same ballot papers used nation-wide
h. Party symbols in color
j. Candidate photos in color
m. Organized alphabetically
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station officials
r. Other
Comments: For the first time in the electoral history of Sierra Leone, tactile ballots were used for the visually impaired (challenged) to vote independently without any support in identifying their choice of candidate to vote for.
Last updated: 2005-06-23 10:25:08 UTC
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
a. At the polling stations
Comments: The conduct of elections starts at 7a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. prompt if there are no other persons in the queue before 5p.m. Immediately after, the presiding officer sorts out the ballots in order of the candidates and in the presence of candidates (polling) agents and the full view of the public, counts the valid ballots and declares the result there and then.
Source: National Electoral Commission Act 2002
Last updated: 2005-06-23 10:56:44 UTC
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
b. Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box
c. Tally of voters who voted
d. Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters
e. Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused)
j. Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate
l. Counted by hand
q. Copies of results are provided to observers
s. Copies of results are provided to party agents
Comments: The statement of poll form is filled out with the result ofthe election and copies given to party (candidates agents) for onward transmission to their candidates.
Source: National Electoral Commission Act 2002
Last updated: 2005-06-23 10:38:40 UTC
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
d. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: Regional level: Constituency as the collation centre of all results of the constituency.
Source: National Electoral Commission Act 2002
Last updated: 2005-06-23 10:41:30 UTC
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
f. Not applicable
Comments: Seats are allocated at constituency level in blocks, based on proportional representation concept
Source: National Electoral Commission Act 2002
Last updated: 2005-06-23 10:43:52 UTC
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
a. Physically transported
b. By telephone
c. By fax
Comments: The ravaged warin SL destroyed allcommunication infrastrature,like telephone lines and road network. As such the UNMSIL presence in SL used air flights and military communication systems during the 2002 elections.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:33:16 UTC
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
a. Ballots
b. Unused and spoiled ballots
c. Counterfoils of used ballots
d. Voter rolls
e. Tendered ballots
f. Certificate of result
g. Ballot boxes
Comments: Voting screens and other voting materials like indelible ink,ink pads and validating stamps
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:34:53 UTC
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
d. Transported in boxes sealed with numbered seals
e. Accompanied by election officials
h. Accompanied by police or other security personnel
Comments: Party agents and observers are admitted at the collation centres where the final tally or colation of polling station results areaddedup at constituency centres.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:36:45 UTC
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
d. By request
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:37:28 UTC
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:38:05 UTC
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
a. Political parties
b. An individual candidate
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:38:55 UTC
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
c. Local Election Management body
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:39:22 UTC
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
a. Yes
Comments: Immediately after counting at the polling station, the presiding officer declares the results, but that does not show who has won the election at the constituency level,until the final collation has been done at the constituency centre before the conclusive result of the winner is declared
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:42:08 UTC
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
d. Not applicable Na
Comments: This is not determined in number of hours, ideally the results is declared upon the communication system available.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:44:40 UTC
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
a. National Electoral Management Body
b. Regional Electoral Management Bodies
c. Local/County Electoral Management Bodies
d. National Government
e. Regional Governments
f. Local Governments
g. NGOs/ Civic Organizations
h. Political parties/ candidates
i. Media
j. Religious Institutions
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:41:57 UTC
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
b. Election time only
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:42:22 UTC
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
h. Yes, conducted by NGOs/ Civic Organizations
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:43:29 UTC
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
b. Media advertisement
c. Simulation exercises
d. Music and theater
e. Public meetings
Comments: Seminars and workshops,training programmes of elections workers and political party agents
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:45:03 UTC
Voting Operations
VO01 Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
h. 21-30%
Last updated: Fri, 05 Oct 2001 13:38:01 GMT
VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
a. Yes
Comments: It was developed for election 2002.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:58:19 UTC
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
j. Other
Comments: Special provision for IDPs and refugees.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:59:12 UTC
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
c. Special polling stations
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:00:49 UTC
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
b. Yes
Comments: Special voting day is set aside for persons who would be working on the poll on election day, especially police, military, polling staff, etc.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:02:45 UTC
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
a. At special advance polling centers
e. Other
Comments: Special provision for staff working on election day.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:03:14 UTC
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
f. Other
Comments: Special voting day is set aside for persons who would be working on the poll on election day, especially police, military, polling staff, etc.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:04:19 UTC
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes
Comments: About 500 for rural area polling station population and 1,000 at urban area polling station population
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:05:57 UTC
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes, the maximum capacity is: 1,000
b. No 500
Comments: About 500 for rural area polling station population and 1,000 at urban area polling station population
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:07:02 UTC
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Comments: By maintaing the secrecy of voting
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:07:50 UTC
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 5
b. The largest polling station: 5
Comments: i.A Presiding Officer ii.Polling Assistance in charge of Voters Register, iii. Polling Assistance in charge of indelible ink, iv.Polling Assistance in charge of ballot paper (Presidential) v.Polling Assistance in charge of (Parliamentary)
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:10:56 UTC
VO13 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the presiding polling officer for the most recent national elections?
a. hours: 5 hours
Comments: Training of polling staff were conducted for Returning Officers separetaely. Presiding Officers and polling assistance also had a separate training session.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:12:58 UTC
VO14 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the other polling officials for the most recent national elections?
a. hours: 5 hours
Comments: Training of polling staff were conducted for Returning Officers separetaely. Presiding Officers and polling assistance also had a separate training session.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 10:14:04 UTC
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Comments: Representation of the people allows every citizen of SL being 18 years of age and of sound mind shall have the right to vote and accordingly shall be entitled to be registered as a voter for the purposes of public elections and referenda.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:47:55 UTC
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
b. Period of Residence
Comments: Representation of the people allows every citizen of Sierra Leone being 18 years of age and of sound mind shall have the right to vote and accordingly shall be entitled to be registered as a voter for the purposes of public elections and referenda. At any public elections or referenda, voting shall be by secret ballot.
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:51:00 UTC
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
a. Criminal Incarceration
c. Detention
d. Mental disability
g. Service on Judiciary
Comments: Staff of the National Electoral Commission, Judicial Service and the Civil Service. In the event of wishing to contest an election, one had to resign his position before filing for nomination
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:53:29 UTC
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
d. Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: National Electoral Commission. (NEC)
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:53:49 UTC
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
b. Voters register
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:54:12 UTC
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
c. Periodically (or before each election)
Last updated: 2005-06-30 09:55:03 UTC
20/05/2008 07:19
