Bio Pushes Parliament to Approve Long-Awaited Constitutional Reforms

President Julius Maada Bio has urged Parliament to pass the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025, calling on lawmakers to vote “Yes” to reforms he said would strengthen political inclusion, electoral credibility, and democratic governance ahead of the next general elections.

Addressing the nation on Sunday, August 9, 2026, President Bio described the Bill as the outcome of more than two decades of constitutional consultations involving successive governments, political parties, civil society, and citizens.

He highlighted key proposals, including the introduction of Proportional Representation and a constitutional minimum of 30 percent for women in political nominations, which he said would create greater opportunities for women, youth, professionals, and minority groups to participate in governance.

The President also said the reforms seek to strengthen the independence and accountability of electoral institutions and ensure fair, transparent, credible, and trusted elections.

Defending the timing of the reforms ahead of the next general elections, Bio said constitutional and electoral changes should be made before elections rather than when voting is imminent.

He urged MPs to consider the Bill beyond partisan interests, stressing that the Constitution belongs to all Sierra Leoneans.

“Do not vote for me. Do not vote for this Government. Do not vote for any political party. Vote for Sierra Leone,” President Bio told lawmakers.

He concluded by calling on Parliament to pass the Bill and described the vote as an opportunity to advance a stronger, more inclusive, and democratic constitutional framework for Sierra Leone.