Ahead of Sierra Leone’s fifth multi-tier elections since the end of the civil war in 2002, citizens are in high hopes and the contest mainly involves the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the leading opposition party, All People’s Congress (APC).
Various factors will influence the elections where 3.3 million out of 8.4 million Sierra Leoneans will determine who becomes President and the 135 members of parliament, 14 paramount chief members of parliament and councillors.
Some of the factors include a previous brawl in the legislative chamber, economic difficulties, ethnic considerations, and the adoption of a proportional representation system.
Key issues and sentiments:
- Legislative Chamber Brawl: Six months ago, a viral video showed SLPP and APC members of parliament engaging in a physical altercation over the proposed adoption of a proportional representation system.
- Proportional Representation System: The provision for a proportional representation system, which would allocate seats based on party preference or merit, has sparked controversy and opposition from the APC.
- Economic Difficulties: Sierra Leone faces economic challenges, including inflation, unemployment, and a decrease in GDP growth. The cost of living and high exchange rates have influenced voters’ sentiments.
- Regional and Ethnic Politics: Sierra Leone is divided along ethnic and regional lines, with the APC dominating the North and the SLPP dominating the South. Voters’ allegiances often align with their regional background and ethnic affiliations.
- Incumbent President – Julius Maada Bio: President Bio, a retired brigadier, seeks a second term after winning the 2018 presidential election against Samura Kamara. He enjoys support from the SLPP and has a military and political background.
- Major Contender – Samura Kamara: Kamara, a former governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone and Minister of Finance and Economic Development, represents the APC. He has faced scrutiny due to an inquiry into the APC-led administration.
- Ethnic Diversity: Sierra Leone is home to various ethnic groups, with the Temne and Mende people being the largest and most influential. The political landscape often aligns with these ethnic divisions.
- Economic Impact: The state of Sierra Leone’s economy, including fiscal pressures, high inflation, and a deteriorating debt burden, influences voters’ decisions.
- Lack of Awareness: Many Sierra Leonean voters are unaware of the proportional representation system or the simultaneous parliamentary and presidential elections.
- Call for Peaceful Elections: International observers emphasise the importance of peaceful elections, urging Sierra Leoneans to make informed choices without being influenced solely by primordial considerations.
As Sierra Leone prepares for its elections, it is crucial for voters to make informed decisions and prioritise peaceful electoral processes to determine the country’s leadership for the next five years.
