Sierra Leone: Presidential election goes to second round March 27 /update 2

Event

The National Electoral Commission (NEC) confirmed on Tuesday, March 13, that no candidate secured an outright majority in the first round of the presidential election. According to the NEC, Julius Maada Bio, from the opposition Sierra Leone People’s Party, received the most votes with 43.3 percent. Samura Kamara, the candidate from the ruling All People’s Congress (APC), won 42.7 percent. The NEC announced that the second round of the election will be held on Tuesday, March 27. Political demonstrations may occur in the days leading up to the vote. Increased security measures are to be anticipated surrounding any political events that take place, particularly around polling stations during the election.

Context

The first round was held on March 7. Current President Ernest Bai Koroma is stepping down from the presidency after being in office since 2007.

Advice

Individuals in Sierra Leone, particularly in Freetown, are advised to keep abreast of the situation, refrain from any politically sensitive discussions in public, and avoid all demonstrations and polling stations as a precaution. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.