As Sierra Leonians await the announcement of the result of last Saturday’s presidential election, the Commonwealth Observer Group has called for calm by the political parties.
The Chair of the Observer Group and Nigeria’s former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo said this in a preliminary report released on Tuesday of its assignment.
The Observer group according to a statement noted logistical challenges faced by the electoral commission such as late delivery of materials to polling centers, the delayed opening of polling stations, and
gaps in levels of transparency as well as a deficit in public trust in the Electoral body and other key state institutions, such as the judiciary.
The Statement adds that all stakeholders, which include polling officials and political party agents, the police must maintain the peace.
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“We appeal to all political parties, their supporters, and other stakeholders in the electoral process to continue to show utmost restraint and allow the Electoral Commission to discharge its mandate.
“We urge all to continue upholding their commitment to the electoral pledge, signed by political parties on 25 May, with the same spirit of national unity, peace, and solidarity.”
Turnout in the election was huge according to figures so far released as President Julius Bio seeks re-election with his challenger, Kamara also optimistic about winning.
(Editor: Ena Agbanoma)
