Freetown, 14th August, 2026 – The Sierra Leone Labour Congress has formally appealed to President Julius Maada Bio not to assent to the Constitutional Amendment Bill recently passed by Parliament, warning that the legislation has sparked widespread public resentment and threatens democratic governance.
Representing workers nationwide, the Labour Congress expressed grave concern that position papers submitted by religious organizations, civil society groups, and other stakeholders including its own were disregarded during parliamentary deliberations. “The exclusion of these voices undermines the participatory spirit of constitutional reform and weakens confidence in democratic good governance,” the Congress stated.
At the heart of the objection is a clause that transfers the power to elect Members of Parliament from citizens to political parties. The Labour Congress described this as “an affront to democracy and the sacrifices Sierra Leoneans have made to secure their rights to self‑determination and accountability.”
The organization has urged the President to remit the Bill back to Parliament for reconsideration, citing “overwhelming reservations by the people.” It also attached its detailed position paper outlining recommendations for safeguarding citizens’ rights.
“We trust in Your Excellency’s wisdom and commitment to protecting the democratic rights of Sierra Leoneans,” the Labour Congress concluded in its appeal.
