In an exclusive interview with AYV, a spokesperson for the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC) shed light on the first 10 days of Sierra Leone’s political campaign, revealing a relatively peaceful atmosphere marred by a few notable incidents.

According to the spokesperson, the initial phase of the campaign unfolded without major disruptions, with only a handful of minor incidents reported across the country.

“One incident that caught attention involved the obstruction of the APC campaign trail in Moriba, Bonthe district. The incident, allegedly orchestrated by members of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), resulted in a temporary halt to the APC’s campaign activities in the area”..

“Another incident occurred in Mile 91, where known members of the SLPP were reportedly chased out and forced to seek refuge at Muamba Junction temporarily”

The spokesperson underscored the overall tranquility during this period, particularly in the Western area, where no major obstructions or disruptive behavior were reported from either political party.

While minor incidents, such as the tearing down of political opponents’ posters, were reported in Falaba, Magroka, and Kenema (specifically in Blamatown), these occurrences did not escalate into violent confrontations. Nonetheless, the incidents at Mile 91 and Moriba stood out as exceptions, capturing significant attention and concern. He states

Adding thatvPromptly recognizing the gravity of these incidents, the PPRC swiftly engaged with the security sector to address the specific cases at Mile 91 and Moriba in Bonthe district.

He furthered that Although the PPRC’s mandates have limits, extending primarily to matters of party registration and conduct, they actively collaborate with the security sector to ensure that investigations into incidents involving physical harm, assaults, or threats to life are thoroughly conducted and reach satisfactory resolutions.

He end by stating that the PPRC remains vigilant in monitoring the conduct of political parties and urges them to engage in constructive dialogue while refraining from actions that could undermine the democratic process.