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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The reforms further require the president to consider regional balance, gender equality and minority inclusion when making public appointments.<\/p>\n
The ruling SLPP says the changes will strengthen democracy while reducing the costs, political tensions and security risks associated with presidential run-off elections.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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