Legal Implications Regarding the Appointment of Ibrahim Gbla as Acting Mayor

Legal Implications Regarding the Appointment of Ibrahim Gbla as Acting Mayor

Layemin Joe Sandi, the former Mayor of Bonthe Municipality, has expressed significant concern regarding the appointment of Ibrahim Gbla as Acting Mayor of the Freetown City Council. Mr. Sandi contends that this administrative move may deviate from the statutory requirements established by the Local Government Act of 2022.

In a formal communication dated March 25, 2026, Mr. Sandi clarified that the position of "Acting Mayor" is not recognized under current legislation. According to the Act, the Deputy Mayor is the sole official authorized to execute mayoral functions in the incumbent's absence. Furthermore, while councillors may preside over meetings in a procedural capacity, such a role does not confer the legal powers or executive authority of the Mayor.

The former Mayor also addressed the issue of quorum, noting that council meetings are only legally valid when at least 50% of all councillors are in attendance. Consequently, any decisions reached or appointments made—including that of Mr. Gbla—without meeting this threshold may be subject to legal challenge.

Regarding oversight, Mr. Sandi noted that while the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs manages administrative functions, it lacks the jurisdiction to appoint or confirm an Acting Mayor; administrative continuity is instead the responsibility of the Chief Administrator. Any presidential intervention is strictly governed by Section 108 of the Act, requiring a two-thirds majority approval from Parliament.

While acknowledging the substantive governance and service delivery issues that have led to the SLPP boycott of council proceedings, Mr. Sandi emphasized that all corrective actions must remain within the rule of law. He concluded that undermining the legal framework of local councils ultimately compromises the essential services upon which citizens depend.