By John Ikani
President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has made a passionate plea for a peaceful election following a tense campaign.
The incumbent president, who is seeking re-election, concluded his final rally at Freetown’s Lumley Beach on Tuesday, just days before the scheduled polling day on Saturday.
In a resolute tone, President Maada Bio emphasized the importance of non-violence during the electoral process.
“I want to appeal to everybody, we want peaceful elections. No violence. You have your card, on that day go and vote,” he urged, encouraging citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
The upcoming elections will not only determine the presidency but also serve as an opportunity for voters to elect Members of Parliament and local council representatives.
With thirteen candidates competing for the highest office, Sierra Leone’s political landscape is diverse and dynamic.
This election season, the traditional parade-like political street rallies have been prohibited, a precautionary measure aimed at averting potential violence.
The authorities are keen to ensure a smooth and peaceful voting experience for all citizens.
Macksood Gibril Sesay, a former electoral commissioner, expressed his concerns regarding the lack of a healing process following deadly riots that occurred in August of the previous year.
Sesay emphasized the volatile nature of elections, stating, “Everybody knows that elections are a period where they just need something to spark off and then there will be chaos everywhere.”
In a surprising turn of events, the two main political parties released their manifestos just a month before the elections, drawing criticism from the opposition.
Allegations of bias in favour of the ruling party have been levelled against the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) by the opposition, fueling speculations of a potential court challenge.
It’s worth noting that both parties have resorted to such tactics in previous elections.
