Election eve in Sierra Leone...

It’s the eve before the elections. 

What a gorgeous sunset. 

There’s so much excitement in the air today. 

Everyone is talking about the elections. 

People are so keen to vote tomorrow.

Some people are still traveling to whichever town or city they are registered to vote.

A lot of people are scurrying about running errands.

I went to the supermarket after work today.

I’ve never seen it busier.

Many people are stocking up, just in case. 

Hopefully it’s not even necessary.

But maybe it’s better to be safe. 

It’s hard to judge what the risk is anyway. 

Some organisations made staff stay indoors today.

I’ve been going to work and other places using public transport. 

There’s no right approach except to be alert, listen for legitimate updates (there’s a lot of fake news) and be flexible. 

Right now, there’s a good vibe in the air. 

So far so good. 

I hope and pray it stays that way.

Let’s pray that tomorrow’s elections are free and fair. 

And that everyone who registered to vote can get to their polling station despite vehicle bans. 

Soon we will know who the people of Sierra Leone voted for.

The next week will be a week full of anticipation. 

Let’s pray that tomorrow, and the days following the elections are full of peace and unity.

Vote wisely Sierra Leone. 

Make your vote count.

#sierraleonevotes #presidentialelection #sierraleoneelection #electionsinsierraleone #sierraleone #undivided #keepthepeace

Sierra Leone elections: campaigning...

Right now I am sitting in my flat, wearing a green shirt and very much aware of the fact that I should change clothes before heading out tonight. In the era of political campaigning one must think about the colors he/she puts on. 

It's a bit strange to think that elections are on Saturday. Everything seems quite normal today, which is a good thing. Having said that, I just called Osman who is upcountry and was driving through Bo and all I could hear were whistles and shouting. Today is an SLPP rally day in Bo! So, lots of noise there. Tomorrow is the final day of campaigning/rallies and in the urban Western Area it is designated to SLPP. So- it will be a very busy and noisy 'GREEN' day tomorrow. 

I guess I should be wise and get enough water, basic food items, phone credit, etc. just in case things go haywire. However, I really think we'll be okay. Fingers crossed and many prayers said.

Sierra Leone elections: T-6 weeks...

Yes, on November 17th, Sierra Leone will hold it's presidential elections. Officially the campaigning starts on the 15th of October. Unofficially, it has already begun. Today there was an SLPP rally throughout town. We first spotted then on Fourah Road from our office window just before we were due to leave the hospital to head to the west side of town. Fortunately, although there was rallying in various parts in the city, our trip didn't really take that much longer. In an hour and 15 minutes we were home.

Even this evening a rally came right past my house. It consisted of a couple of vans, huge speakers, many people trailing behind them, loud music, green clothing and lots of dancing. The strange part was when they passed through the street for a second time an hour later playing a soundtrack that ended with gunshots and glass shattering. That was a bit too bizarre for me.

It will be very interesting to see how politics takes over the city during the next 6 weeks. All I can say is that I hope it stays calm. Sweet Salone please remain peaceful!