Freetown, Sierra Leone – (African Boulevard News) – The vote counting process started on Saturday evening in Sierra Leone, following a general election that was mostly peaceful, despite some polling stations experiencing a late start.
The National Electoral Commission (NEC) has been tallying the votes since polls closed on Saturday evening, with results expected to be announced in the coming days.
This year’s election saw 16 candidates vying for the presidency, including the incumbent President Julius Maada Bio, who was seeking re-election. The two main opposition candidates were Kandeh Yumkella, a former United Nations Under-Secretary-General, and Samura Kamara, a seasoned politician.
There was a high voter turnout, with the NEC estimating that around 80% of registered voters cast their ballots. The election was closely monitored by observers from the African Union and the European Union, who described the process as generally peaceful and transparent.
“We have witnessed a largely peaceful election, and we commend the people of Sierra Leone for their commitment to democracy,” said Maria Arena, the head of the EU observer mission.
The election was held amid concerns over the country’s economy, which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The new government will face the daunting task of reviving the economy and addressing other pressing issues, such as corruption and youth unemployment.
Speaking to reporters after casting his vote, President Bio said he was confident of victory and urged Sierra Leoneans to remain peaceful during and after the election.
“I urge all my fellow countrymen and women to maintain peace and order throughout the polling period and thereafter,” Bio said. “We are on the right path to a democratic and prosperous Sierra Leone.”
The opposition candidates also expressed confidence in their chances of winning the election, calling on their supporters to remain vigilant and peaceful.
“This is a crucial moment in our country’s history, and we must ensure that our voices are heard through the ballot box,” Yumkella said.
Sierra Leone has a history of electoral violence, with the country experiencing a brutal civil war from 1991 to 2002. However, recent elections have been largely peaceful, and many citizens hope that this year’s election will consolidate the country’s democratic gains.
In conclusion, Sierra Leoneans are eagerly waiting for the announcement of the election results, which will determine the country’s next president and set the course for its future.
