Sierra Leone: Opposition leader wins presidential runoff April 4 /update 9

Event

The National Electoral Commission (NEC) announced on Wednesday, April 4, that Julius Maada Bio of the opposition Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) won the March 31 presidential run-off election. Bio received 51.8 percent of the votes cast, while Samura Kamara of the ruling All People's Congress (APC) secured 48.1 percent. Bio was subsequently sworn in as president in the capital Freetown. However, Kamara announced on Thursday, April 5, that he is planning to contest the official results, claiming the election was marred by fraud. Political gatherings, including celebratory rallies by the SLPP and protests by Kamara supporters, are likely.

Context

Tensions have been high in the country since the first round of the election was held on March 7. The NEC confirmed on March 13 that no candidate had secured an outright majority, with Bio receiving the most votes (43.3 percent). Violence between rival political parties broke out in the lead up to the second round. According to the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, there has also been an increase in recorded instances of tribalism and hate speech.

The election results were initially delayed due to a disagreement between the two parties on the vote tallying method. Minor clashes took place in Freetown on election day, leading to 15 arrests.

Advice

Individuals in Sierra Leone, particularly in Freetown, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, refrain from any politically sensitive discussions in public, and avoid all demonstrations. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.