By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
Sierra Leone’s organized labour has made a direct appeal to President Julius Maada Bio to withhold assent from the newly passed Constitutional Amendment Bill, warning that key provisions undermine democracy and public trust.
In a formal letter dated 13 August 2026 to State House, the Sierra Leone Labour Congress said the Bill has sparked “widespread public resentment” and should be sent back to Parliament for deeper review.
The Congress accused lawmakers of ignoring critical position papers submitted during the amendment process by religious bodies, civil society organisations, the Labour Congress, and other stakeholders.
“Such disregard undermines the participatory nature of constitutional reform and risks weakening confidence in our democratic governance,” the SLLC stated.
The union’s biggest concern centers on electoral provisions it says would shift sovereignty from voters to political parties. According to the Congress, the Bill dilutes citizens’ right to freely elect their Members of Parliament by giving parties greater control over representation.
“This is an affront to democratic principles and to the sacrifices made by Sierra Leoneans to secure accountability from elected representatives,” the letter said.
The Labour Congress attached a detailed position paper outlining its objections and recommendations. It urged the President to use his constitutional powers to protect citizens’ rights.
“Accordingly, we humbly request Your Excellency to remit the Bill back to Parliament for reconsideration in light of the overwhelming reservation by the people,” the Congress appealed.
The intervention adds pressure on the Presidency as debate intensifies over the Bill, which was passed by Parliament this week and now awaits presidential assent.
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