By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
Attorney General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay has confirmed that the long-anticipated constitutional review in Sierra Leone has officially entered the drafting phase, with a completion target set for before the 2028 national elections.
Sesay made this announcement during the closing session of the National Civic Festival at Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown on Saturday, responding to inquiries from festival participants. He acknowledged the complexity involved in amending the nation’s 1991 Constitution, emphasizing that constitutional reform is a process requiring time, technical expertise, and broad consultation.
“These processes do not take over 20 years,” Sesay remarked. “A country must gain enough experience to effectively complete such reforms for the better.”
He reflected on previous attempts at constitutional reform, notably the Tucker Constitutional Review Committee, which faced disruptions due to government transitions that hampered progress. “The change in government meant that the calendar was never completed. It’s not that the process was too costly, but that broader consultation was needed to reach a consensus,” he explained.
Sesay stressed the importance of concluding the current review without delay, stating that it is essential to avoid starting another constitutional review immediately after the 2028 elections. He assured citizens that the ongoing process is designed to promote long-term stability.
Among the proposed reforms, Sesay highlighted a plan to set national election dates every five years on a Saturday to enhance predictability and consistency in the electoral calendar. “Holding elections on a Saturday will ensure accessibility for everyone,” he noted.
The review process will involve key stakeholders including constitutional experts, civil society organizations, and political parties, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusivity and public participation.
This announcement signals a renewed commitment by the government to finalize a revised Constitution ahead of the 2028 elections, effectively balancing expert input, citizen engagement, and political consensus.
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