APC Flagbearer Aspirant Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr to Renounce British Citizenship to Contest Presidency

Freetown Mayor and All People’s Congress (APC) flagbearer aspirant Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr has confirmed she will renounce her British citizenship to meet Sierra Leone’s constitutional requirements for presidential candidates.

Speaking on Liberty Online TV, Aki-Sawyerr acknowledged that Sierra Leonean law prohibits individuals with dual citizenship from contesting the presidency or serving as a party flagbearer. She emphasized her understanding of the legal provisions and affirmed her commitment to comply fully with the Constitution.

“I have every intention of doing that because I will contest as a Sierra Leonean citizen only,” she said, adding that citizenship is a legal matter that must be resolved before any serious political contest.

Aki-Sawyerr stressed that her political ambitions are grounded in service to Sierra Leone and respect for the country’s laws. She noted that adherence to constitutional provisions is essential for maintaining public trust in democratic processes and leadership credibility.

Her remarks come amid growing public discussion about eligibility requirements for political office, particularly as parties prepare for the 2028 general elections. Questions surrounding citizenship, legality, and constitutional compliance have featured prominently in recent political debates.

Widely regarded as a leading figure within the APC, Aki-Sawyerr’s comments appear aimed at clarifying her position and reassuring supporters that she will meet all legal and constitutional obligations before contesting for the party’s flagbearer role.