Government Urges Public Participation as Constitutional Amendment Bill Moves to Parliament
By Aminata Kamara
The Government of Sierra Leone has urged citizens to actively engage in the constitutional amendment process as a proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill is set to be tabled in Parliament in the coming weeks.
Speaking at the weekly government press briefing at the Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, said the proposed amendments are aimed at strengthening democratic governance and aligning the Constitution with the aspirations of the people.
Sesay said the bill proposes reforms in key areas including the electoral process, separation of powers, and anti-corruption mechanisms. He noted that the changes are intended to modernize the country’s legal framework and enhance accountability across state institutions.
“The Constitution is a living document and must evolve with the aspirations of the people,” Sesay said, calling on civil society groups, political parties, legal practitioners, and the general public to submit their views and recommendations.
According to the Attorney General, the government has already begun nationwide consultations to collect public input, insisting that broad participation will improve transparency and strengthen public confidence in the process. Contributions are expected through public forums, written submissions, and engagements with Members of Parliament.
Governance experts say the proposed amendments could significantly impact Sierra Leone’s democratic system, particularly by reinforcing institutional checks and balances and strengthening anti-corruption measures.
However, some civil society organizations have expressed concern about the pace of the process, urging the government to intensify civic education so citizens can fully understand the scope and implications of the proposed reforms.
The Constitutional Amendment Bill will be debated in Parliament, where lawmakers are expected to review the proposals and consider public submissions before taking a final decision.
