FREETOWN, June 26, 2023 – President Julius Maada Bio addressed the nation today, urging Sierra Leoneans to maintain peace and respect public order laws as the country awaits the announcement of the final presidential election results. On June 24, citizens across the nation voted for various national and local council offices.
The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) is responsible for managing, tabulating, and announcing election outcomes. As of this afternoon, the Chief Electoral Commissioner of ECSL has announced 60% of the presidential election results.
While the nation awaits the final results, President Bio called on all citizens to refrain from inciting violence or engaging in violent actions. He emphasized the importance of avoiding provocative and retaliatory behavior, and encouraged citizens to foster peace within their communities and social and political affiliations.
President Bio also urged the police and security forces to act with restraint and provide equal protection to all citizens, emphasizing that every individual’s constitutional rights are equally important and must be respected.
Reaffirming his commitment to an inclusive, peaceful, fair, and transparent electoral process, President Bio stressed the need for the nation to maintain its hard-won democracy and uphold its constitution. He reminded citizens of the country’s difficult history and the responsibility to avoid returning to such a dark period.
In his closing remarks, President Bio asked the nation to patiently await the final results from ECSL and thanked the people for their participation. He expressed his gratitude and offered blessings for the future of Sierra Leone.
