By Mohamed Kamara
The long-standing constitutional restriction barring dual citizens from contesting parliamentary elections in Sierra Leone could soon be a thing of the past, if Recommendation 47 of the Tripartite Committee is adopted following nationwide consultations and dialogue.
The recommendation proposes that Sierra Leonean citizens with dual nationality be allowed to contest for parliamentary seats, provided certain safeguards are met. These include a minimum of six months’ residency prior to elections or the payment of local taxes—a current requirement for parliamentary candidacy.
This marks a potential reversal of past disqualifications that notably affected candidates during the tenure of former President Ernest Bai Koroma, where dual nationals were barred based on Section 76(1)(a) and Section 43(2)(d) of the 1991 Constitution and the 1973 Citizenship Act.
The proposal has been welcomed by many in the diaspora, from London to New York, who argue that the inclusion of dual citizens in national politics will expand democratic participation and bring much-needed investment and expertise into the country’s governance.
Smaller political parties are especially optimistic, viewing the amendment as a pathway to attract financial and logistical support from Sierra Leoneans abroad, particularly those disillusioned with the country’s dominant parties—the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC).
“This could be a game-changer,” said one political analyst. “It opens the door for a new generation of leaders who bring international experience and resources.”
However, not everyone is in support. Critics argue that the move may dilute local political representation and grant undue influence to individuals who have spent most of their lives outside the country. Some question whether diaspora-based candidates truly understand the daily challenges faced by Sierra Leoneans on the ground.
“Do they really know what we go through here?” asked a concerned Freetown resident. “We want representation by people who live our reality—not just visit during elections.”
As the nation prepares for upcoming consultations, the debate around Recommendation 47 is expected to intensify, highlighting broader questions about identity, belonging, and democratic inclusion in Sierra Leone’s evolving political landscape.
