The US, the EU and the United Kingdom warn of the “lack of transparency” in the Sierra Leone elections

June 28 (EUROPA PRESS) –

The European Union, the United States and the United Kingdom, have applauded this Wednesday the participation of the people of Sierra Leone in the elections on Saturday, in which President Julius Maada Bio revalidated his mandate, echoing at the same time the “lack of transparency” denounced by national and international observers.

“We celebrate the participation of the people of Sierra Leone in the general elections of June 25, 2023,” begins the statement, signed in turn individually by France, Ireland and Germany, in which they have praised “the dedication displayed” by who exercised their democratic rights

However, they have also mentioned the “significant logistical problems” that made the elections difficult in some areas and share the “concern” shown by national and international observers about the “lack of transparency” in the tabulation processes after the vote count.

“Despite these difficulties, we remain committed to supporting democracy and the aspirations of the people of Sierra Leone,” says the letter urging all parties to engage in respect for the law and restraint in a peaceful dialogue to resolve any political conflict.

The Sierra Leone Election Commission confirmed on Tuesday Bio’s victory in the first round after achieving 57 percent of the votes, against his main rival, Samura Kamara, who was left with 41 percent of the ballots, in an election marked by complaints from the opposition that denounces lack of access to the verification and recount processes.