On Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) nominated Mohamed Sowa Turay as their Presidential Candidate and Madam Olivette Walker as their Vice Presidential Candidate for the 24 June general elections.

Turay expressed his motivation for entering the race, stating that he aims to unify the divided Southern and Northern hemispheres of Sierra Leone.

He believes that he has the vision to repair the divisions and “heal the land.” Despite his attraction to the NGC/SLPP Alliance, he decided to go for the UDM nomination with his running mate.

However, if the UDM chooses to join the NGC/SLPP Alliance, he may step down and support President Julius Maada Bio’s candidacy.

Turay emphasizes the importance of having a national leader who can unite the North, South, East, and West of Sierra Leone. He believes that he is capable of doing so, but is open to working with President Bio if they share the same vision.

Another significant focus for Mr. Turay is the empowerment of women, which is why he chose Madam Olivette Walker as his running mate.

He noted that President Bio also chose a woman as his running mate and has done much to empower women in Sierra Leone, highlighting their shared values on gender equality.