Sierra Leone voters' views: Bernard

Bernard Sisay, 39, is the marketing director for one of Sierra Leone's main mobile phone networks.

The results were not a surprise. It was clear that the elections were going to be quite close.

I think most Sierra Leoneans are excited at the opportunity for renewal and change, and the opportunity that we can now step back and review what has worked and what hasn't.

The victory of the All People's Congress (APC) is certainly a positive prospect for the country.

President Koroma will certainly lead this country well and I believe this because of three things: one, he's worked in the private sector and understands that the private sector is a major vehicle for economic change; two, he fully understands the need for change and delivery of results which can only be achieved by having a competent and motivated team; and three, he has been a member of parliament for five years and so understands the system and what approaches are needed.

SIERRA LEONE VOTERS' VIEWS Ernest, 21, Bo Odette, 26, Freetown Bernard, 39, Freetown Joseph, 29, Kenema Bernard's views prior to poll

This to me means he fits the bill and it is my wish that he translates this as my president into big ideas and big dreams.

Our opportunity of renewal and change is very exciting.

The next couple of months will give us an idea of the direction that President Koroma is going to take.

I am very excited.

Five years from now, our country will be a better place.

I hope the international community does all they can to support our new government and help them to tackle poverty and corruption. Goodwill must be extended.

We deserve that.

Especially when you think that less than 10 years ago, this country was going through the most brutal war that you cannot even imagine.

That we have now had two democratic elections and a complete peaceful changeover in power is living testimony to the desire of the people in this country to take a stand so as to have a better life.

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