Sierra Leone: General election scheduled June 24

Event

Sierra Leone's general election is scheduled for June 24, in which the country’s president, parliament, and other local representatives will be elected. The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) announced that the campaign officially runs 07:00-17:00 daily, May 23-June 22. Pollical gatherings, authorized or not, are likely as the election nears despite a ban on political street rallies enacted by authorities, citing security concerns. Parties are required to pick a single location to hold campaign activities.

An increased security presence, as well as road traffic and business disruptions, are likely in the vicinity of political events and near polling stations on election day. While previous elections passed without significant incidents of violence, clashes with security forces, opposing rival activists, and other forms of electoral violence are possible. Claims of fraud in the aftermath of the results may also inflame tensions. Officials may impose additional restrictive measures, such as temporary curfews, to prevent violence or in the event of significant unrest.

Context

While 13 candidates and parties will compete in the presidential race, the main candidates are incumbent President Julius Maada Bio from the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and Samura Karama from the All People's Congress (APC). A second round will take place if there are no candidates able to gather at least 55 percent of the votes.

Advice

Remain apprised of the political situation. Avoid discussing political topics in public. Allow extra time for travel amid the election period. Avoid political gatherings due to possible clashes and polling stations on election day. If violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernment building. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.