In a press conference held this afternoon, Samura Kamara, the leader and presidential candidate of Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), criticized the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) for its lack of transparency and accountability during the critical stages of the electoral process.
Kamara specifically highlighted concerns regarding the tallying process, stating that it fell short of international best practices and posed a threat to the peace and stability of the nation.
The APC had previously issued press releases on June 26, expressing condemnation towards the manner in which Mohamed Konneh, the head of the ECSL, presented the tallying results from purportedly 60% of polling stations.
Kamara emphasized the party’s ongoing disapproval of Konneh’s lack of inclusivity, transparency, and accountability.
Additionally, Kamara commended the National Election Watch (NEW) for their courageous press release, which provided an alternative perspective on the credibility of the election outcome and aligned with the APC’s belief that it favored their party.
Addressing the citizens of Sierra Leone, Kamara appealed to their collective endurance of suffering and injustice under the current government.
He highlighted the majority of Sierra Leoneans’ rejection of another five years of intimidation, oppression, violence, and economic hardships at the ballot box on June 24.
The APC leader assured the public that his party stood behind their votes, advocating for a transparent counting process and urging local and international observers and diplomatic missions to support the majority’s voice.
Kamara emphasized that the situation was not merely about the APC party or Sierra Leone but about democracy itself, as a threat to democracy in one place affects it everywhere.
Expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and were injured in defense of democracy, Kamara conveyed his appreciation to local and international partners for their efforts in this challenging period. He implored them to prevent the erosion of civil and political liberties, particularly the right to choose political leaders, emphasizing that such actions should not occur under their watch.
In conclusion, Kamara reiterated his commitment to democracy and the betterment of Sierra Leone, concluding his statement with gratitude and a call for the preservation of democracy in the Republic of Sierra Leone.
Watch the press conference below:
We don’t want any malpractice on this elections, we’ve have vow our lives for change in Sierra Leone, we are in hell in this past five years and now we want to go to heaven to improve our lives
Incredible sir we are with you sir
Go high court that is more than the court of ECOWAS.
You can’t even speak good English to public then you want to rule. Who sent you. Go away men!!!!! Comot na ya.
Samura Mumu kamara sorry
This broad daylight theivery of the people’s right in Sierra Leone marks the end of democracy in not only Sierra Leone but some parts of Africa. African countries with pending elections, watch out.
Dr Samura Kamara, we are not prepare to hear any gunshots again.
You fail to protect our votes.
You allowed lot’s of intimidation, harassment etc…..
Since results has been pronounce, just congratulate the winner, and forget about that.
You well know that, there was an agreement between former president Dr Ernest Bai Koroma and President Julius Maada Bio in 2012, witnessed by former president of Nigeria Goodluck Jonathan.
The All People’s Congress is a signature to the PR system.
Then now, why making hypocrite?
Please don’t lead us to bloodbath again.
Just go to the drawing board again, and check out your mistakes.
Former president Dr Ernest Bai Koroma, has fulfill his agreement, and can now go in peace.
Congratulation president Bio.
May you live long, to enjoy your second term presidency.