Sierra Leone President urges Parliament to vote ‘Yes’ on constitutional amendment

Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has appealed to Parliament to approve the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025, urging lawmakers to put national interest ahead of partisan considerations.

In an address to Parliament ahead of the vote on Sunday August 9, President Bio described the proposed amendment as an opportunity to complete a constitutional reform process that has continued across successive administrations for more than two decades.

He urged lawmakers to consider the views and expectations of citizens who participated in consultations on the proposed reforms, particularly women, young people and communities that have contributed to the process.

“This is the moment to rise above  politics. This is the moment to honour the sacrifices of our people,” President Bio said.

A major provision of the proposed amendment is the introduction of proportional representation, which the President said would broaden political participation and create greater opportunities for women, young people, professionals and minority groups to gain representation.

The amendment also proposes a constitutional requirement for a minimum 30% quota for women in political nominations, aimed at making women’s participation in political leadership an enforceable constitutional commitment.

President Bio urged lawmakers to view the proposed changes beyond the immediate political environment, stressing that their decision would have implications for the country’s democratic development.

“When you enter the Chamber to cast your votes, I ask you to look beyond the present political moment. Listen to the voices of the citizens who participated in the consultations,” he appealed.

He further urged Parliament to consider the expectations of women who have long sought greater representation and young people seeking stronger participation in decisions that affect their future.

“Let this Bill be passed now. Let Honourable Members vote ‘Yes’ not for a party, not for an individual, but for the people and the future of democracy in Sierra Leone,” he said.