By Kadijatu Bangura D.S Reporter
FREETOWN – The Government of Sierra Leone has called on citizens to engage constructively and rely on verified information as Parliament considers the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill.
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education hosted its Weekly Press Conference on Tuesday, 18th August 2026, at the Miatta Civic Centre, with Deputy Minister Bockarie A.A. Bawoh leading the engagement.
Deputy Minister Bawoh said constitutional matters should not be reduced to partisan politics. He stressed that the Constitution is a national document that affects all Sierra Leoneans, and debates around amendments must be guided by the country’s long-term interests rather than party lines.
Reflecting on the country’s democratic evolution, Bawoh cautioned against drawing conclusions without understanding Sierra Leone’s constitutional history and the context that shaped its institutions. He said citizens should examine reform proposals carefully and avoid allowing political differences to obscure the substance of the Bill.
According to him, constitutional provisions must not be crafted to permanently benefit any one party or group. “The Constitution belongs to the people and must serve the nation, regardless of which political party is in power,” he said. He emphasized the need for laws and institutions strong enough to withstand political transitions and protect citizens under every administration.
On the amendment process itself, the Deputy Minister said changes to the Constitution cannot be made outside the law. He explained that any amendment must go through the required institutional review, parliamentary debate, and approvals before taking effect.
Bawoh also highlighted the role of the judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, in upholding constitutional governance. He noted that where disputes arise over provisions or their interpretation, the law provides clear avenues for resolution. Respect for the rule of law and the independence of constitutional bodies, he said, is critical to public confidence in democracy.
He urged the public to separate political rhetoric from facts when discussing the Bill, and to seek accurate information on what is actually being proposed and how it could affect governance and citizens’ rights.
“Finally, the Deputy Minister Bawoh called on citizens to remain engaged, ask questions, and rely on credible information as they seek to understand the Constitutional Amendment Bill and its potential implications for the country’s democratic future.”
Bawoh concluded that constitutional reform should be driven by national interest and the goal of strengthening democratic institutions. While acknowledging that opinions may differ, he encouraged lawful and responsible debate on the issues.
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