16 ASPIRANTS SIGN RIGHTS DECLARATION CONTEST FOR MALEN CROWN

Hassan Juana Koroma, Pujehun

A total of sixteen aspirants has been officially granted the right to contest the forthcoming Paramount Chieftaincy Election in Malen Chiefdom, Pujehun district, following a successful Declaration of Rights ceremony held on Sunday, June 4, 2026.

The ceremony, described as a key milestone in the chiefdom’s electoral calendar, brought together a wide cross-section of the community, including traditional authorities, government officials, community stakeholders, ruling family representatives, youth leaders, women’s groups, and hundreds of residents from within and beyond the chiefdom.

The gathering marked a significant constitutional and legal stage in the process of selecting a new Paramount Chief. Speaking to participants at the event, Abu Bakarr Kamara, the Provincial Secretary who also serves as the Declaration Officer, emphasized that the Declaration of Rights is an essential constitutional requirement under Sierra Leone’s chieftaincy electoral system. He explained that the ceremony provides an opportunity for eligible candidates from recognized ruling families to publicly declare their intention to contest and to have their eligibility verified by the relevant authorities. Kamara reiterated that the purpose of the exercise is to ensure legitimacy, transparency, and adherence to due process. He further urged all stakeholders to prioritize peace, unity, and mutual respect throughout the election period.

According to him, the election should be viewed not merely as competition among aspirants, but as a chance for the people of Malen Chiefdom to strengthen democratic governance while ensuring continuity and preservation of traditional leadership structures. All sixteen cleared aspirants were individually recognized and granted approval to take part in the electoral process after meeting the necessary traditional and legal conditions required for candidacy.

The aspirants include George Kayongo Kortu, Paul Sengeh Jr, John Titus O’Neil, Thomas Sheku Sengeh, Hassan Jah Bunduka, Abu Amara Bunduka, Francis Sengova, Maada Joe Kebbie, Mustapha Salia Sengova, Gassimu Kabioko Kebbie, Alhaji Musa Jaward Kebbie, Amidu Kebbie, Henry Magbie, Barnard Kebbie, Adamu Magbie, Hon. Shaka Musa Sama Kai Magbie.

With their acceptance confirmed, the process now moves into what is expected to be an intense campaign phase, where aspirants will engage communities, outline their visions for the chiefdom, and seek support from eligible voters. Community members who attended the ceremony expressed optimism that the upcoming election will produce a leader capable of advancing development, peace, and social cohesion in Malen Chiefdom. Many residents urged supporters of all aspirants to remain disciplined and to avoid actions that could threaten the stability of the chiefdom. Several traditional leaders also used the occasion to remind candidates and their supporters that leadership is fundamentally about service to the people, not personal gain. They encouraged aspirants to focus their campaigns on key issues affecting the chiefdom, including Education, Healthcare, Agriculture, Infrastructure development, and Promotion of unity among residents.

They also stressed the importance of constructive engagement, noting that development cannot thrive in an environment of division. The Declaration of Rights ceremony was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere, with security personnel and local authorities maintaining order throughout the proceedings. Observers commended the level of organisation shown by stakeholders, describing the event as well-coordinated and reflective of a commitment to a transparent and credible process. The Election is expected to commence on Sunday, 14 June 2026.