Sierra Leone’s parliament has approved constitutional reforms that will change the country’s electoral rules ahead of the 2028 presidential election, despite opposition from the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC).
The reforms, backed by the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), were approved on Monday by a simple majority of lawmakers present, Parliament Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas announced after the session.
No voting figures were released.
APC lawmakers walked out of the chamber after their demand for a two-thirds majority to approve the reforms was rejected.
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The reforms will reduce the presidential election threshold from the current 55 per cent to a simple nationwide majority.
They will also introduce proportional representation for legislative elections and establish a 30 per cent quota for women in political leadership positions.
Under the proposed rules, a presidential candidate must also secure at least 20 per cent of votes in two-thirds of Sierra Leone’s districts to avoid a run-off.
The reforms further require the president to consider regional balance, gender equality and minority inclusion when making appointments.
The SLPP says the changes will strengthen democracy and reduce the financial costs, political tensions and security risks associated with presidential run-off elections.
The APC, however, wants the existing 55 per cent threshold retained, arguing that it encourages presidential candidates to seek broader national support and gives the eventual winner greater legitimacy.
President Julius Maada Bio, who is serving his final term and is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election in 2028, had urged parliament on Sunday to approve the reforms.
