APA-Freetown-(Sierra Leone) President Julius Maada Bio has been returned to office in the wake of Sierra Leone’s June 24th election.
The Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) Tuesday evening declared President Bio the winner with more than 56 percent of the votes, avoiding a run-off against his main rival Samura Kamara who trailed far behind with 41 percent.
Kamara’s camp has already rejected the results, citing irregularities and lack of transparency.
Moreover, international observers and the United States have also voiced concern about a lack of transparency in the counting process.
In 2018, Bio, under the then main opposition Sierra Leone’s People Party (SLPP), became president after defeating Kamara, the candidate of the then ruling All People Congress (APC).
The 59-year-old is due to be sworn in for his second five-year term soon.
Bio’s re-election comes against the backdrop of tensions in the run-up to the vote.
Born on May 12th, 1964 in Tihun, Sogbini Chiefdom, Bonthe District, Bio is one of 35 children born to Paramount Chief Charlie Wonie Bio II, Sogbini Chiefdom.
He completed his primary, secondary and undergraduate education in Sierra Leone. before starting his illustrious public service journey as a school teacher and later joining the Sierra Leone Army where he rose through the ranks as Brigadier.
He previously served as Chief Secretary of State, Chief of Defense Staff, Minister of Information, Minister of Marine Resources, Deputy Head of State, and ultimately as President of Sierra Leone from January to March 1996.
As military leader, Bio presided over the 1996 democratic elections, the first in Sierra Leone in nearly three decades and ushered in civilian rule under now late Ahmed Tijan Kabbah.
This had earned him the title “Father of Democracy” in Sierra Lone because of his outstanding contribution towards the restoration of democracy and the attainment of peace in a country riven by more than a decade of brutal internal strife.
Millions of Sierra Leoneans voted last Saturday amid torrid economic times characterized by a weak local currency, high inflation, as well as growing violence.
This was Sierra Leone’s fifth election since the civil war ended in 2002.
ABJ/APA