April 6, 2018 By Ibrahim Tarawallie
The United States Department of State has congratulated the newly elected President, Retired Brigadier Julius Maada Bio and his vice, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, after being declared winner of the presidential run-off election.
Chairperson and National Returning Officer of the National Electoral Commission, Mohamed Nfa Alie Conteh on Wednesday, March 4, declared the Presidential Candidate of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) winner of the March 31 run-off election after securing 1,319,406 of the valid votes cast, representing 51.81%, while his nearest challenger, Dr. Samura Kamara of the All People’s Congress (APC) polled 1,227,171, 48.19%.
In 2012, the former military leader contested the presidential election as his party’s standard bearer but lost to President Ernest Bai Koroma.
A press release issued by the US Embassy in Freetown stated that they looked forward to working with President Bio to further strengthen bilateral relationship between the two countries.
“Finally, we would like to recognize President Ernest Bai Koroma for his commitment to an orderly and timely political transition. We are committed to working closely with the Government of Sierra Leone and we look forward to advancing our longstanding mutual interests in economic development, trade, health, and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
“As a longstanding friend, the United States congratulates the people of Serra Leone on their active and peaceful participation in the presidential election held on March 31, which is a testament to the strength and resilience of Sierra Leone’s democracy.”
The embassy commended NEC for administering an orderly, well managed process, while recognising the important role played by political parties and civil society organisations in the elections.
They also welcomed statements by international and domestic observer missions affirming the credibility of the election and urged all leaders to demonstrate their continued commitment to the Constitution, Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions, and her people.