Sierra Leone’s Parliament has approved a constitutional reform that will overhaul the country’s electoral rules ahead of the 2028 presidential election, despite strong opposition resistance.
The bill, backed by the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), was passed by a simple majority of members present, according to Parliament Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas. No voting figures were released.
Lawmakers from the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) walked out of the session after their argument that the reforms required a two-thirds majority was rejected.
The reforms lower the threshold for winning the presidency from 55% of the vote to a simple nationwide majority. They also introduce proportional representation for parliamentary elections and a 30% quota for women in political leadership positions.
Under the new rules, a presidential candidate must also secure at least 20% of the vote in two-thirds of Sierra Leone’s districts to avoid a run-off election.
The reforms further require the president to consider regional balance, gender equality and minority inclusion when making public appointments.
The ruling SLPP says the changes will strengthen democracy while reducing the costs, political tensions and security risks associated with presidential run-off elections.
However, the opposition APC argues that retaining the current 55% threshold encourages candidates to build broader national support and gives the winning candidate greater legitimacy.
President Julius Maada Bio, who is serving his final term and is ineligible to contest the 2028 election, urged Parliament on Sunday to approve the reforms.
–ChannelAfrica–
