The 2012 Presidential Election

So it’s over – we know the result – the USA has voted and Barrack Obama has secured a second term.

But enough of that as here in Sierra Leone we must wait until 17 November for the Presidential and Parliamentary elections.

On that Saturday those citizens who have registered to vote shall be lining up at polling centres to cast their votes for elections.  The main vote is for the President with the current President Ernest Bai Koroma (APC), who uses the ingenious slogan to have a second term -" if the music's nice, play it twice",  running for a second term against Julius Maada Bio (SLPP).

There is a great hope that these elections will be free from violence and so far there have not been any major problems.  Everyone is hoping it will stay that way.  Songs on the radio convey messages to ensure peaceful elections with posters plastered on walls throughout town encouraging the same.  There have been rallies over the past few weeks, with the two main parties (APC and SLPP) attracting large crowds of people.

In Freetown, the rallies have been loud but peaceful. For the most part, people seem to be having a good time – singing, dancing, smiling, cheering and enjoying the moment. Around town there are billboards with large pictures of presidential candidates. People are wearing shirts in the colour affiliated with their political party – the APC is red while the SLPP sport green.

Here are some images of the rallies.  As you can see they really embrace the colours

APC in Freetown

SLPP in Freetown