Attorney General Presents Constitutional Amendment Bill as “Survival to Prosperity”

Freetown, 28th July, 2026 — Sierra Leone’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., has described the Constitutional Amendment Bill 2025 as a historic opportunity to move the nation “from a constitution of survival to a constitution of prosperity.”

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Sesay traced the origins of constitutional reform to the 1999 Lome Peace Agreement, reinforced by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (2002–2004), and advanced under successive governments led by Presidents Kabbah, Koroma, and Bio. He reminded lawmakers that the 1991 Constitution was essentially a “peace treaty” designed to stabilize multi-party democracy after years of conflict.

The Attorney General highlighted two major sources for the current Bill: Justice Edmund Cowan Review Report (2013), which drew on over 10,000 public consultations, 133 stakeholder engagements, 150 position papers, and 70,000 forms nationwide and the Tripartite Committee Report, containing 18 consensus recommendations jointly developed by Government and the Opposition APC, with leadership from Dr. Emmanuel Gaima and Dr. Kaifala Marah.

Sesay noted that further submissions from citizens and stakeholders were considered after gazetting, with a technical team from both Government and APC reviewing concerns.

The Bill introduces two landmark reforms: Proportional Representation, aimed at opening political space for women, youth, and minority voices and the 30% Women’s Quota- constitutionally mandating a minimum of 30% female representation in political nominations at both national and local levels, building on the GEWE Act.

Sesay pledged that all 16 recommendations in the Women’s Manifesto will be incorporated into the constitutional package, paying tribute to Deputy Minister of Justice, Madam Saptieu Elizabeth Saccoh, for her advocacy.

“This Bill is not partisan, but generational,” Sesay declared. “It is a chance for democratic renewal.”

Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo welcomed the debate, stressing that constitutional amendments require at least 100 votes under Section 108(2). He assured that the APC is not opposed to reform but will scrutinize each clause to ensure it serves the national interest. “Our contributions will be guided by the rule of law and democratic principles,” he said.

Leader of Government Business Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma echoed the call for patriotism, urging MPs to treat the Bill with seriousness and responsibility. He emphasized that the amendments address governance, representation, women’s empowerment, and electoral systems, all under the vision of “One Country, One People.”