By Makutu Manneh
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has warned that it will pursue legal action against unregistered political entities engaging in activities reserved for officially registered political parties, including holding congresses, nominating candidates, and soliciting funds for political office.
Speaking at a monthly stakeholder forum, the IEC Chairman, Joseph Colley, said the commission was empowered to act where there is evidence that such entities are operating outside the law.
“Where evidence exists that an unregistered entity is performing functions reserved exclusively for political parties, including use of party symbols, holding congresses, nominating candidates, or soliciting funds for political office, the commission is empowered to act,” Colley said.
He added that enforcement measures could include issuing public notices, referring cases to the Attorney General’s Chambers, and, where necessary, initiating court proceedings to restrain what he described as unlawful political activity.
Colley said the issue would be further discussed with the Inter-Party Committee (IPC), bringing together all registered political parties for consultation. He also said the commission would issue a public advisory clarifying the legal distinction between registered political parties and other associations, as well as the limits of political activity for unregistered groups.
“Citizens who observe breaches are encouraged to report the same to the IEC with specific evidence for investigation and appropriate action,” he said, urging public vigilance to safeguard the integrity of the electoral system.
The IEC chair further noted that while political movements may register under other legal frameworks—such as through the Attorney General’s Chambers as non-governmental organizations or associations—such registration does not confer political party status.
“Nor does it permit them to conduct activities reserved by law for registered political parties,” he said.
Colley added that the IEC, in collaboration with the Inter-Party Committee and law enforcement agencies, would continue to monitor the political environment closely.
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