Opposition Demands Legal Adherence for Constitutional Reform

Opposition Demands Legal Adherence for Constitutional Reform

The inaugural session of the Pre-Legislative Hearing on Sierra Leone’s Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025 commenced with a forceful declaration from the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, who emphasized the imperative for any constitutional reform effort to be conducted in scrupulous compliance with the law.

Addressing the assembly, Hon. Kargbo clarified that the opposition maintains an open stance toward constitutional change in principle but firmly mandates that the process must satisfy all statutory and constitutional requirements.

“While we are not fundamentally opposed to change, every measure undertaken must be in complete adherence to national legislation,” he asserted.

Hon. Kargbo directly countered previous assertions regarding the Bill, specifically noting that it incorporates entrenched clauses that necessitate a higher threshold than mere parliamentary sanction.

“It must be clearly understood that entrenched clauses not only require a two-thirds majority in Parliament but also constitutionally demand ratification through a national referendum,” he stressed.

He cautioned that any failure to respect the established constitutional procedures would elicit resolute resistance from the opposition.

“Should the proposed amendments deviate from established procedures, we shall withdraw our participation. Conversely, if they are lawful, we will offer our cooperation. If they are determined to be unlawful, we shall withhold it,” Kargbo stated.

His comments established a definitive framework for the pre-legislative hearings, signaling the opposition's intent to rigorously examine all proposed amendments, particularly those affecting entrenched clauses and the foundational democratic principles of Sierra Leone’s Constitution.