afrol News, 4 September - Amid reported clashes involving their supporters, the presidential contenders of the 8 September second round polls, Ernest Bai Koroma and Solomon Berewa, have committed themselves to lead Sierra Leoneans in a “violence-free elections” march in the capital Freetown on Thursday.

After consultation with President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, the two candidates condemned electoral violence and their supporters to keep peace as they await the polls.

Mr Kabbah had earlier threatened to use his powers to impose a state of emergency if the situation remains tense.

On 11 August Sierra Leoneans took part in a free, fair and transparent presidential and general elections.

But the second round run-off campaign has been marred by clashes between supporters of the two contestants.

The polls, held two years after the exit of the UN peacekeeping mission in the country, are considered litmus test for Sierra Leone’s fragile democracy.

Mr Koroma who led the main opposition polled 44% against the 38% of the ruling SLPP candidate, Mr Berewa. The APC secured 59 of the 112 parliamentary seats while the SLPP obtained 43.

Both candidates have restored hope among peace-hungry Sierra Leoneans after their assurance not to use vigilantes and former rebel fighters in their campaign.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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