Current Press Releases

US Government Financial Support to 2008 Elections (24 April 08)

Freetown April 25, 2008
Contact: PAO Danna Van Brandt
Tel: 076 515000

United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Ambassador June Carter Perry, announced today that the United States Government will provide an additional contribution of US one million dollars towards the local government elections in July 2008. This is in addition to US $2.55 million we are already contributing to support the electoral process in Sierra Leone. We have also requested additional funds in support of this important democratic effort, as Sierra Leone has already demonstrated remarkable leadership and commitment to democracy in the conduct of the 2007 National Elections.

Ambassador Perry noted that "The additional contribution demonstrates the United States Government's commitment to assisting Sierra Leone in its efforts to strengthen its democratic credentials. We will continue to promote democracy and advance good governance in Sierra Leone to sustain peace, security, and stability," Ambassador Perry said.

The US $1 million will go towards providing training for female candidates, developing voter education message in support of women's political participation and convening post-election forum to promote the inclusion of women in decision making process at all levels. Current funding is also being used to increase the scope and magnitude of civic and voter education for the upcoming local government elections, thereby strengthening elections and political processes at the local level.

The United States Government looks forward to a successful local government election in Sierra Leone, which would continue to underscore the tremendous progress Sierra Leone has made since the end of the war.