Sierra Leone Parliament Approves Contested Electoral Reforms

ierra Leone parliament approves contested electoral reforms

Sierra Leone’s parliament has approved sweeping changes to the country’s electoral system ahead of the 2028 presidential election, despite weeks of opposition resistance to the reforms. The ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) backed the reforms, arguing they will reduce electoral costs, political tensions, and security risks associated with presidential runoffs. Under the proposed system, the presidential vote threshold would fall from 55% to a simple nationwide majority, while legislative elections would use proportional representation. The reforms also establish a 30% quota for women in political leadership and require presidential candidates to secure at least 20% of votes in two-thirds of districts to avoid a runoff. Opposition All People’s Congress lawmakers walked out of the session, arguing the changes required a two-thirds majority rather than the simple majority used to pass the bill.