Sierra Leone: Safty and Security of Persons Is a Fundamental Element in Electioneering Process

opinion

Distinguished readers, two major aspects of electioneering process are safety and security of persons and freedom of movement. In the world all over for an election to be seen as free, fair, credible and peaceful, the electorates must have free access to polling stations in order for them to peacefully cast their votes. On no account should electorates who have successfully gone through the Biometric Voter Registration exercise and whose sole aim is to cast their votes peacefully, face challenges in accessing polling centers on polling day. Safety and security of persons and freedom of movement are basic rights that everyone should enjoy without limitation and in accordance with the law.

The Sierra Leone Police is charged with the responsibility to protect life and property; they must put thorough mechanisms in place so that they may not be overtaken by events. The SLP by every standard must maintain professionalism, neutrality and ready to dispense their duty effectively without fear or favour and within the law. They must be bold to arrest whosoever, whether from the ruling party or other political players whose only aim is to win the November, 17th elections at all cost through whatever means. Presidential aspirants and political parties, be reminded that the November, 17th elections must be won through the ballot box, and not through fraud and violence. The SLP must not use the curative measures but preventive measures which are the watchwords for a "Force for Good".

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