2023 Elections: US Embassy Releases Advisory to American Citizens
Mohamed Foday Conteh The United States Embassy in Freetown has cautioned American citizens as Sierra Leone edge towards its general elections.
In a post on its official website, the embassy urged citizens to exercise caution as the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone declared the start of campaigns.
“Large crowds may occasionally be violent, requiring police intervention,” the embassy said.
The US embassy said that although the timings and locations of campaigns are now public, US citizens should be cautious there are occasions when such notices are not available.
“As always, large gatherings present a change to the environment, and you should consider their impact to your safety and security when making decisions,” it said.
The embassy also recommended that US citizens avoid large crowds and demonstrations and keep a low profile; always be aware of their surroundings.
The embassy affirmed that efforts have already been made by the Sierra Leone Police and Military to maintain order and security during the election period. They noted that the number of security checkpoints has risen.
“When approaching a checkpoint, please slow down and pay attention to the instructions given by the security officials. At some checkpoints, vehicles and passengers are stopped and searched,”
The embassy also asks its citizens to expect traffic changes that may occur as a result of the election.
Although the atmosphere has been relatively calm since the start of the campaign, there have been reports of violence in some parts of the country.
Recently, the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) campaign chairman southern region, Elogima Momodu was attacked in Rutile Town, Bonthe District by alleged thugs of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).
The present regime, ( the PAOPA government ) is made up of RUG members including the President. These are people who have no respect for human rights.
The actual SLPP members are now in their regret for forming the RUF to overthrow the APC. Now the Real/ Actual SLPP members have no place in this PAOPA government. This is one reason why nobody should encourage or support EVIL.
Maada Bio, Dr. Alie Kabba, the IGP, the present head of the army, the present minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the ECSL boss, Sylvia Blyden, the high court judges and many others are Rebels.
Your Excellency, the American Embassy please do not Trust what Bio and these Inctitutions say in terms of maintaining peace in this country. Please do not Trust REBELS.
I am not too sure if you are saying the truth Sahid Mohammed Kamara.
Oh my God I pray for a peaceful and successful election come June 24,GOD go ahead and bring peace among tribes in sirra Leone