Sierra Leone President proposes increasing Paramount Chief representation

President Julius Maada Bio has proposed increasing the representation of Paramount Chiefs in Sierra Leone's Parliament. The plan suggests moving from one to two Paramount Chief Members of Parliament per district to better recognize the role of traditional leaders in community leadership, peacebuilding, and social cohesion. A technical committee, led by Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, will conduct a consultative, evidence-based review of the proposal to ensure it aligns with constitutional and legal provisions.

This initiative is part of a broader government decentralisation agenda aimed at transferring more responsibilities and resources to local authorities to improve essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

However, the administration faces significant challenges, including a protracted economic crisis characterized by rising food prices and a depreciating exchange rate. The government has seen four different finance ministers since 2018 in an attempt to stabilize the macroeconomy. Additionally, the presidency is facing scrutiny over reports that Jos Leijdekkers, a Dutch national convicted of international cocaine trafficking and money laundering, is residing in Sierra Leone under an alias with alleged protection from individuals in power.