In Sierra Leone, the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for June 24, 2023, will see a diverse group of candidates competing for the highest office in the country. Let's take a closer look at each candidate and their respective parties.
Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone SLPP:
Dr Julius Maada Bio, a retired brigadier in the Sierra Leone Army, has been serving as the President of Sierra Leone since April 4, 2018. He rose to prominence during his previous tenure as the military head of state of Sierra Leone. As the candidate of the main opposition Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP), Bio won the 2018 Sierra Leonean presidential election with 51.8% of the votes. He succeeded Ernest Bai Koroma as president and has been leading the nation since then.
Dr. Samura Kamara, Flag Bearer of the APC:
Dr. Samura Kamara, an economist, served as the candidate for the All People's Congress (APC) Party in the 2018 Sierra Leone presidential election. He held various prominent positions in the government, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Minister of Finance and Economic Development. Although unsuccessful in his bid for the presidency, Kamara's political experience and economic expertise continue to be influential within the APC.
Mohamed Jonjo, Citizens Democratic Party Presidential Candidate:
Mohamed Jonjo has emerged as the Citizens Democratic Party (CDP) Presidential Candidate for the June 24, 2023 elections in Sierra Leone. He brings valuable experience from his previous role as a Senior Advisor/Specialist in Water Quality and Nature Management in the Netherlands. Jonjo has also played a vital role in fostering trade links between the Netherlands and Sierra Leone as a board member of Holland-Sierra Trading.
Saa Henry Kabuta, United National Peoples Party (UNPP) Presidential Candidate:
Saa Henry Kabuta is set to represent the United National Peoples Party (UNPP) as their Presidential Candidate in the upcoming June elections. Kabuta, like Mohamed Jonjo, has a background as a Senior Advisor/Specialist in Water Quality and Nature Management in the Netherlands. He has also been involved in promoting trade connections between the Netherlands and Sierra Leone as a board member of Holland-Sierra Trading.
Mohamed Sowa-Turay, Chairman and Leader of the United Democratic Movement (UDM) Party:
Mohamed Sowa-Turay currently serves as the Chairman and Leader of the United Democratic Movement (UDM) Party. His extensive background includes working at the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) and holding positions as a Social Worker at Catholic Relief Services and a CLTS facilitator with Help Salone. He has also been involved with initiatives related to youth empowerment, employment security management, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene).
Iye Kakay, Presidential Candidate Alliance Democratic Party (ADP):
Iye Kakay is the presidential candidate for the Alliance Democratic Party (ADP) in the 2023 elections in Sierra Leone. She made history by becoming the first woman to be selected as the ADP's presidential flagbearer. Kakay aims to bring about positive change and progress to the country, alongside her running mate, Franklyn Kobi.
Charles Margai Party, Leader and Presidential Candidate People's Movement for Democratic Change (PMDC):
Charles Margai is a prominent figure in Sierra Leonean politics and the leader of the People's Movement for Democratic Change (PMDC). He previously ran as a candidate for the presidency in 2007, securing third place. Margai, the son of a former Prime Minister and nephew of the country's first Prime Minister, continues to play an active role in shaping Sierra Leone's political landscape.
Mr Beresford Victor Williams, Presidential Candidate for Republican National Independent Party (ReNIP):
Beresford Victor Williams assumed leadership of the Republican National Independent Party (ReNIP) in 2018. Although the party did not secure any seats in parliament, Williams has garnered attention for his vocal criticism of the government on economic and social issues.
Mr Abdulai Saccoh, Presidential Candidate, Revolutionary United Front Party (RUFP):
Abdulai Saccoh, the presidential candidate of the Revolutionary United Front Party (RUFP), brings a unique blend of political and professional experiences to the table. He previously served as the party's spokesperson and has professional expertise in gemology and diamond grading.
Mohamed Chernoh Bah, Presidential Candidate for National Democratic Alliance (NDA):
Mohamed Chernoh Bah, the chosen presidential candidate for the Democratic Alliance (NDA), will represent the party in the upcoming elections. Bah previously led the NDA during the 2018 elections.
Jonathan P.J. Sandy, Presidential Candidate for the National Unity and Reconciliation Party (NURP):
Jonathan P.J. Sandy, the presidential candidate for the National Unity and Reconciliation Party (NURP), has an extensive career focused on promoting democratic and economic governance, justice, human rights, and the rule of law. Sandy's experience spans various government and international positions.
Nabieu Musa, Presidential Candidate for Peace and Liberation Party (PLP):
Nabieu Musa, the presidential candidate for the Peace and Liberation Party (PLP), is dedicated to promoting peace and development in Sierra Leone. He envisions a future where the country experiences substantial growth and progress.
Prince Coker, Presidential Candidate for People's Democratic Party (PDP):
Prince Coker assumes the role of Chairman and Leader of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in the upcoming elections. He has played a pivotal role in the party's rise to prominence and advocates for democracy, inclusivity, and social justice.
As the 24th of June approaches, Sierra Leone's political landscape is filled with anticipation for the election outcome and the potential impact these candidates will have on the country's future trajectory.