Authors : Hamza Amin Kargbo; Dr. Abdulai Turay

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 4 - April

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5ak37ydr

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/yc6ku3zx

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25apr1970

Google Scholar

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Note : Google Scholar may take 15 to 20 days to display the article.

Abstract : This study investigates the transformative potential of data visualization and geographic information systems (GIS) in enhancing electoral transparency, civic empowerment, and democratic resilience within the context of Sierra Leonea nation navigating post-conflict reconstruction and democratic consolidation. Despite commendable progress in institutional reform, electoral processes in Sierra Leone remain constrained by limited transparency, inadequate access to real-time information, low levels of voter education, and growing public skepticism regarding electoral credibility. As digital technologies become increasingly integral to governance worldwide, their integration into electoral systems emerges as both a strategic imperative and a tool for democratic renewal. To address these challenges, this research proposes and critically examines the development of an interactive, web-based election analysis platform that leverages data visualization and spatial mapping to present complex electoral data in intuitive, accessible formats. Utilizing a Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, the study combines empirical data collection through stakeholder interviews, usability testing, and field observations with iterative prototype development. The platform features dynamic dashboards, choropleth maps, candidate profiles, and real-time reporting functionalities designed to engage a broad spectrum of users, including policymakers, civil society actors, journalists, researchers, and the general public. Grounded in interdisciplinary literature on digital democracy, information asymmetry, and participatory governance, this paper situates Sierra Leone democratic trajectory within the evolving global discourse on e-governance and civic technology. The findings reveal that interactive visual tools not only enhance electoral transparency but also foster greater inclusivity by engaging marginalized and low-literacy populations. Moreover, the system functions as a safeguard against misinformation, providing a centralized, verifiable source of electoral data that can inform media reporting and academic research. Ultimately, this study contributes a replicable, context-sensitive framework for integrating digital innovation into fragile electoral environments. The proposed model offers a scalable blueprint for electoral reform that extends beyond Sierra Leone, serving as a reference point for other emerging democracies seeking to harness technology in the service of electoral integrity, civic engagement, and institutional accountability.

References :

1. Bøås, M., & Dunn, K. C. (2003). Politics of origin in Africa: Autochthony, citizenship and conflict. African Affairs, 102(408), 189–210. https://doi.org/10.1093/afraf/adg020
2. Hevner, A. R., March, S. T., Park, J., & Ram, S. (2004). Design science in information systems research. MIS Quarterly, 28(1), 75–105. https://doi.org/10.2307/25148625
3. International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA). (2021). Electoral integrity: Global standards, local practices. https://www.idea.int/publications/catalogue/electoral-integrity-global-standards-local-practices
4. Mansilla, L., & Abascal, E. (2020). Electoral visualization: The visualization of electoral results. In L. LeDuc, R. G. Niemi, & P. Norris (Eds.), Handbook of electoral behaviour (pp. 389–408). Routledge.
5. Norris, P., & Frank, M. (2018). Why elections fail. Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781139680727
6. World Bank. (2021). Using data visualization to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. https://documents.worldbank.org/en/publication/documents-reports/documentdetail/500261631182635498