With less than 10 days to the Presidential and other elections, UDM leader and Presidential candidate, Mohamed Bangura suprisingly announced his withdrawal from the race.
According to party sources, the decision was unanimously taken at an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), held on November 6, embracing all stakeholders of the party.
Confirming the decision yesterday, UDM spokesman, Editayo Temple, told Awoko that the action of the party was to support President Ernest Koroma, for his tremendous strides he had made towards the development of the country.
Furthermore, he said, the action was meant to strengthen the campaign stance of the party in both the parliamentary and local councils elections slated for next weekend.
However, the spokesperson affirmed that the decision does not signify the demise of the UDM, as it was taken in a patrotic manner with no strings attached.
But what has baffled many, is why the withdrawal should come at the eleventh hour when the National Electoral Commission had printed ballot papers.
According to NEC sources, the law provides for a candidate to withdraw not less than ten (10) days before the election.