By Mohamed Kamara
Concerns are mounting over the possibility of renewed political tension between Sierra Leone’s two main political parties, the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), amid growing controversy surrounding the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system.
Political observers say one of the most critical recommendations under the Unity Agreement (UA) remains unresolved, particularly the future of the PR system, which the opposition APC continues to view as a threat to its electoral prospects.
Citizens and political analysts are increasingly questioning whether both parties will respect the outcome of any parliamentary debate and vote concerning the electoral system ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Mariama Bangura, who previously served as Special Assistant to former central Freetown Member of Parliament, Nuru Deen, now reportedly living in exile in The Gambia, warned that the APC’s previous parliamentary boycotts should not be interpreted as the end of political confrontation over the issue.
According to her, the debate over the Proportional Representation system is likely to become the next major political flashpoint, especially as the ruling SLPP government appears determined to maintain the system for the 2028 elections.
She explained that if the APC insists on abolishing the PR system, Parliament would ultimately be required to determine the matter through a two-thirds majority vote, as stipulated by law.
Bangura noted that if the APC succeeds in securing the required parliamentary support, the government would have no option but to repeal the PR system. However, if the ruling SLPP secures the two-thirds majority needed to retain it, she said the reaction and acceptance of the opposition APC would become critical for national stability.
She further stated that Sierra Leone’s Constitution does not necessarily require a referendum on the matter once Parliament reaches the required two-thirds majority threshold.
According to Bangura, many ordinary citizens are still unaware of the constitutional and parliamentary complexities surrounding the issue. She warned that failure by either side to accept the eventual outcome could trigger another parliamentary boycott or deepen political divisions.
While international guarantors of the Unity Agreement may believe the political situation has stabilized, Bangura said many analysts remain skeptical about the country’s political future.
She concluded that Sierra Leone’s parliamentary democracy is once again facing a major test, stressing that the outcome of the PR system debate could significantly shape the country’s political direction ahead of the next elections.
