Opposition Chief Whip Slams PR Model Over Voter Choice Concerns

Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, Chief Whip in Parliament, has criticized the Proportional Representation (PR) system, arguing that it limits political participation for independent candidates and weakens direct voter choice.

Speaking during an interview on AYV’s Wake Up Sierra Leone, Kamara described the PR system as flawed, stating that it “is not only bad, it is also taking away the voice of the people.”

According to him, the structure of the PR system prevents voters from electing individuals outside established political parties.

“With the PR system, the people will not have the opportunity to vote for an independent candidate,” Kamara said.

The Chief Whip explained that under the system, representation is largely determined by party lists rather than direct individual contests a structure he believes reduces personal accountability between elected officials and their constituents.

Sierra Leone adopted the Proportional Representation system for the 2023 general elections, a move that sparked public debate among political stakeholders and civil society groups.

Kamara’s remarks add to the ongoing national discussion about the effectiveness of the PR system and its impact on democratic participation in the country.