Sierra Leone is scheduled to hold elections on June 24, 2023. Campaigning for local and national offices officially starts Tuesday, May 23.
Election-related demonstrations and rallies regularly take place in the runup to the election and at times will block key intersections and cause traffic jams. Large crowds may occasionally be violent, requiring police intervention. The location and timing of these events has been published but there will be occasions when advance notice is not provided. As always, large gatherings present a change to the environment, and you should consider their impact to your safety and security when making decisions. In general, we recommend you avoid large crowds and demonstrations, keep a low profile, and always be aware of your surroundings. If you have any concern for your safety or security, please contact the U.S. Embassy.
The SLP and RSLF have recently deployed additional security forces around Freetown and the number of security checkpoints has increased. When approaching a checkpoint, please slow down and pay attention to the instructions given by the security officials. At some checkpoints, vehicles and passengers are stopped and searched. If you have any concern for your safety or security, please contact the U.S. Embassy.
With the anticipation of the upcoming elections and the growing enthusiasm throughout the country and in our communities, we should all expect to see some changes in our environments with respect to traffic, safety, and security. As you notice these changes, the U.S. Embassy encourages you to pass on your observations to us.
U.S. Embassy Freetown
Southridge – Hill Station
Freetown, Sierra Leone
Phone: +232 99 105 000
