Sierra Leone: As of June 28, political gatherings and unrest possible nationwide following release of presidential results June 27 /update 3

Event

As of June 28, political gatherings and episodes of unrest remain possible in the coming days following the release of the official results of the general election held on June 24. The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) announced on June 27 that incumbent President Julius Maada Bio from the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) secured a second term, gathering 56,17 % of the votes. However, tensions remain particularly elevated after opposition candidate Samura Kamara from the All People's Congress (APC), who came second with 41,16 %, rejected the results, deeming them unfair. Kamara has seven days from the results release to challenge the election to the Supreme Court.

Protests challenging the results are more likely to occur in APC strongholds in northern and western parts of the country. Likely gathering locations in Freetown include notably the political headquarters of the APC and the ECSL office.

Heightened security, localized road travel delays, and business disruptions are likely near all gatherings. Clashes involving security forces, opposing rival activists, and other forms of electoral violence are possible. Officials may impose additional restrictive measures, such as temporary curfews, to prevent violence or in the event of significant unrest.

Context

The EU Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) announced on June 26 that the election was credible despite concerns the ESCL lacked some transparency and that politically-related violence occurred as the election day neared.

Advice

Avoid all gatherings, political party offices, and election-related activities, as well as concentrations of security forces. If violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernment building. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.