Public Rejects Proportional Representation and Electoral Reforms

Public Rejects Proportional Representation and Electoral Reforms

A recently concluded public opinion survey, administered by the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), indicates widespread public dissent regarding the adoption of the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system in Sierra Leone. Citizens are advocating for a democratic framework characterized by enhanced accountability, transparency, and national unity.

Analysis of the survey data shows that 68 percent of respondents rejected the PR system. This segment expressed a preference for an electoral model that facilitates direct representation of constituents by their elected officials, citing concerns that the PR system may dilute the critical link between the electorate and their representatives.

Furthermore, the research identified significant public reservations toward certain proposed electoral reforms. Specifically, 74 percent of respondents opposed a reduction in the electoral threshold. Opponents argued that such a measure carries the risk of undermining national cohesion and promoting fragmentation across the political spectrum.

The poll also highlighted a substantial deficiency in public civic education. Sixty percent of respondents reported insufficient knowledge to form an informed judgment on the provisions of the Sierra Leone Amendment Bill 2025. CHRDI asserts that this outcome underscores a critical and immediate need for comprehensive public education and broader engagement regarding constitutional and electoral modifications.

Regarding the integration of the diaspora into national governance, findings were divided. While 50 percent of respondents supported permitting dual citizens to hold seats in Parliament, citing the potential infusion of valuable skills and expertise, 44 percent voiced apprehension concerning issues of national allegiance and loyalty.

A near-unanimous 98 percent of respondents expressed strong support for electoral predictability, advocating for the establishment of fixed election dates as a mechanism to bolster democratic stability and transparency.

Significantly, the importance of social rights was emphasized, with 82 percent of respondents endorsing the inclusion of enforceable constitutional rights to access both healthcare and education.

Finally, 57 percent of the participants expressed dissatisfaction with the slow operational progress of the Tripartite Steering Committee. These citizens urged governmental authorities to transition beyond consultative stages toward concrete action in implementing necessary electoral and governance reforms.

CHRDI concludes that these findings are indicative of the citizenry’s increasing desire to actively influence the country’s democratic evolution, and formally requests that policymakers integrate public opinion into the ongoing review of electoral and constitutional frameworks.