Sierra Leone Parliament debates constitutional amendment to bar independent presidential candidates

Members of Sierra Leone's Parliament from the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) voiced opposition to a clause in the Constitutional Amendment Bill that would allow independent candidates to contest presidential elections. Lawmakers such as Hon. Marray Conteh and Hon. Daniel Koroma argued that opening the presidential race to non‑party candidates could undermine the political system.

Opposition leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo warned that any amendment must achieve a two‑thirds majority to be valid, stressing that the proposed changes, including provisions on proportional representation and a 50% + 1 voting system, require broad consensus. The debate continues as Parliament reviews the bill’s various provisions, which are expected to shape Sierra Leone’s electoral framework and democratic governance.