By Mackie M. Jalloh
The call for a new constitution in Sierra Leone remains a central issue in the nation’s governance discourse. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) emphasized that a constitution should serve as the foundational framework of society, reflecting the shared aspirations and minimum safeguards of its citizens. Yet, the 1991 Constitution, which remains in force today, was drafted without broad public participation.
“A constitution ought to be the foundation and basis of the society desired by the people. It should reflect their common aspirations and minimum safeguards,” the TRC noted in its report, adding that the document must promote inclusivity and unity, holding the country together while setting out individual rights and the powers of the state. On this basis, the TRC recommended the formulation of a new constitution.
The constitutional review process formally began in 2013, generating high expectations. More than a decade later, the process remains incomplete and politically contested. Speaking at a civic engagement session in Kono, Attorney General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay traced the review across three administrations: initiated under President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, expanded under President Ernest Bai Koroma, and now advanced under President Julius Maada Bio. Sesay emphasized that the revised constitution seeks to strengthen governance by entrenching fundamental rights, protecting key reforms, and safeguarding public policies such as free quality education. He added that the current amendment bill primarily focuses on electoral reforms and closing gaps in the country’s electoral framework.
However, concerns persist. The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) warned in a January 2026 paper that while the amendment bill introduces progressive provisions—fixed election dates, higher qualifications for electoral commissioners, and a 30 percent quota for women nominees—some clauses could entrench ruling party influence, weaken electoral integrity, and expand executive authority. Opposition voices, particularly from the All People’s Congress (APC), have criticized the process for lacking transparency, cautioning that unchecked reforms could undermine democratic norms.
Human rights lawyer Eleanor Thompson, Managing Lead of Citizens Barray, acknowledged gains in institutional independence but highlighted controversial provisions suspending criminal trials for political candidates one year before elections. While aimed at preventing political persecution, she noted the measure could undermine equality before the law.
Attorney General Sesay insists the constitutional review is a national, non-partisan effort, predating the current administration, and urged citizens to focus on its long-term benefits rather than political narratives.
As debates continue, Sierra Leone faces critical questions: Will the next constitution foster inclusivity, democracy, and public trust, or will political maneuvering compromise its promise? The outcome will shape governance and the foundational values of the nation for decades to come.
This report is supported by the Africa Transitional Justice Legacy Fund through the Media Reform Coordinating Group under the project Engaging Media and Communities to Change the Narrative on Transitional Justice Issues in Sierra Leone.
