In a bid to safeguard national stability and the well-being of citizens, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has taken decisive action by postponing the forthcoming Bike Riders Union (BRU) executive elections. The decision comes in the wake of escalating tensions and security concerns surrounding the highly anticipated event.
The final segment of engagement between the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the BRU Executive saw Major-General Rtd. David Taluva, the Minister of Internal Affairs, stressing the paramount importance of maintaining peace and security within the country. With the looming threat of election-related violence, Minister Taluva underscored the imperative for BRU members to abide by the law and uphold national stability.
Chairman of the BRU Board of Trustees, Mr. Umaru Talia Bah, highlighted significant imbalances and internal issues within the union, expressing apprehensions about their potential impact on the upcoming elections.
Security representatives and BRU line ministries jointly acknowledged the heightened tensions between rival BRU aspirants and their respective factions. The palpable risk of violence necessitated urgent action, leading to the unanimous decision to postpone the elections.
The new date for the BRU executive elections has been rescheduled to Sunday, May 5th, 2024, following careful consideration of the national primary school examinations scheduled for the preceding day. This postponement aims to mitigate risks and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police, pledges to implement stringent security measures. Security personnel will be deployed across regions and at the Bintumani Conference Hall, the designated venue for the elections, to uphold order and safeguard the electoral process.
The BRU elections will be conducted and monitored by the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone and key stakeholders, with the presence of two BRU Presidential Agents and forty delegates from each faction.
Minister Taluva reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order, warning that any attempts to disrupt peace and stability will be met with swift and decisive action in accordance with the law.
The decision to postpone the BRU elections reflects a proactive approach by the Ministry of Internal Affairs to address emerging threats and uphold democratic principles, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.