Sierra Leone Supreme Court hears constitutional amendment challenges

The Supreme Court of Sierra Leone is presiding over three consolidated cases regarding the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The legal dispute centers on whether the bill was passed with the required two-thirds parliamentary majority following the walkout of opposition lawmakers. If upheld, the bill would implement significant electoral reforms for the 2028 elections, including lowering the presidential victory threshold from 55% to 50% plus one vote and returning to a proportional representation system.

Proceedings have been marked by significant tension. Chief Justice Komba Kamanda recently held Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, lead counsel for the All People’s Congress (APC), in contempt and remanded him at Pademba Road Correctional Centre after Kamara made remarks the court deemed derogatory to its integrity. While Kamara’s client, MP Osman Timbo, expressed continued confidence in his counsel, observers have noted that the detention could exacerbate political tensions and impact perceptions of judicial impartiality.

The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has stated it will respect the court’s eventual ruling, affirming its commitment to the rule of law despite maintaining that the parliamentary process was followed correctly. The court has issued specific timelines for the filing of pleadings and statements of case by the Attorney General and the plaintiffs.