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Sierra Leone’s Human Rights Crisis Rooted in Weak Systems, Not Laws – AISL Report

Group of diverse people posing in a room with an Amnesty International banner for the State of the Worldb4s Human Rights Report Launch 2025/2026Reader-friendly version.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Amnesty International Sierra Leone has officially launched its State of the World Human Rights Report for 2025/2026, presenting a comprehensive overview of key national, regional and global human rights developments recorded in 2025. The report was unveiled on Tuesday, April 22, 2026, at the CCSL Hall on Kingharman Road in Freetown, drawing attention to persistent and emerging challenges affecting more than 150 countries worldwide.

The report highlights a global landscape marked by conflict, inequality and governance failures, offering a detailed assessment of human rights conditions across diverse regions. Providing an overview during the launch, Executive Director of Amnesty International Sierra Leone, Solomon Sogbandi, stated that the findings reflect a worrying global trend of increasing authoritarianism coupled with weakening accountability systems. He noted that major international institutions, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, are experiencing operational paralysis driven largely by geopolitical divisions, particularly within the United Nations Security Council.

Solomon Sogbandi described 2025 as a “tumultuous, chaotic and devastating” year, emphasizing that global political dynamics continue to undermine the enforcement of international human rights standards, with powerful states often disregarding established resolutions. Turning to Sierra Leone, he explained that the country’s human rights challenges are largely structural in nature, stemming from weak institutional capacity, inequality and poor enforcement mechanisms rather than a lack of legal frameworks.

He pointed to ongoing concerns over restrictions on freedom of expression, including reported cases of intimidation against journalists and the potential misuse of cybersecurity laws. Solomon Sogbandi also highlighted systemic issues within the healthcare sector, particularly shortages of medical personnel in rural communities and persistently high maternal mortality rates, challenges further compounded by reliance on external funding. Food insecurity, he added, remains a pressing issue, driven by climate change, erratic weather patterns, flooding and rising food prices.

The growing abuse of synthetic drugs, especially kush, was described as a national public health emergency fueled by youth unemployment and weak regulatory systems. He further observed that women and girls continue to face widespread violations, including gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices. While acknowledging progress through legislative reforms such as the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, the Child Rights Act of 2024 and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act, Solomon Sogbandi stressed that implementation remains inconsistent and must be supported by broader social transformation, increased investment in public services and stronger community engagement.

Addressing the issue of female genital mutilation, he referenced a 2025 ruling by the ECOWAS Court of Justice, which found Sierra Leone in violation of women’s rights for failing to criminalize the practice. He described the ruling as a significant precedent that classifies female genital mutilation as torture under international law, while noting persistent gaps in national legislation and enforcement.

Environmental degradation also emerged as a critical concern, with the report identifying deforestation, mining activities and weak regulatory oversight as key drivers. According to the findings, environmental risks affect approximately two-thirds of the population, contributing to declining agricultural productivity, increased vulnerability to disasters and displacement. Solomon Sogbandi concluded that Sierra Leone’s human rights situation reflects what he termed a “duality of formal progress and substantive fragility,” emphasizing the need for stronger institutions, improved service delivery and inclusive governance.

Speaking on women’s rights, President of the 50/50 Group Sierra Leone, Professor Fredline M’Cormack-Hale, acknowledged that the country has made measurable legislative gains but remains “halfway” toward achieving full gender equality. She noted that reforms such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act, the Political Parties Act and the Public Elections Act have contributed to improved women’s political representation, with female parliamentary seats increasing from 18 to 42.

Professor Fredline M’Cormack-Hale further stated that women now occupy 34.5 percent of ministerial positions and 33 percent of deputy minister roles, alongside expanded access to financial inclusion initiatives, particularly within the agricultural sector. Despite those advancements, she emphasized the persistence of an implementation gap, citing weak enforcement, limited public awareness and structural barriers that continue to undermine progress.

She also raised concerns about limited access to agricultural funding schemes, noting that many women remain unaware of available opportunities or face challenges in benefiting from them due to unclear implementation strategies. On the issue of female genital cutting, she described it as a critical test of Sierra Leone’s commitment to human rights, highlighting that activists often face social backlash, threats and stigmatization. She called for clearer legal protections, pointing to gaps such as the removal of provisions relating to the age of consent in recent revisions to the Child Rights Act.

Professor Fredline M’Cormack-Hale further urged the operationalization of the Human Rights Act of 2017 to strengthen protections for human rights defenders, stressing that advancing women’s rights must prioritize dignity, safety and bodily autonomy.

Delivering the keynote address, Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone, Hassan Samba Yarjah, focused on the right to food under the theme: “Feed Salone: Can a National Vision Turn the Right to Food Promise to Plate?” He noted that although Sierra Leone’s national agenda emphasizes food self-sufficiency, global data indicates that more than 300 million people continue to face hunger due to conflict, climate change and economic pressures.

Hassan Samba Yarjah emphasized that the right to food is a fundamental human right linked to dignity and survival, asserting that food insecurity in Sierra Leone is rooted in systemic governance challenges rather than a lack of potential. He outlined key priorities, including strengthening institutions, promoting transparency and ensuring inclusive participation of women, youth, rural communities and persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.

He called for increased civic engagement, urging citizens to demand accountability while supporting local food systems and encouraged Civil Society Organizations to monitor Government performance and amplify marginalized voices. The Commissioner also underscored the need for innovation and cross-sector collaboration to develop practical solutions such as climate-smart agriculture, improved storage systems and better market access.

Hassan Samba Yarjah concluded by stressing that human rights commitments must translate into tangible outcomes, warning that failure to ensure food security undermines national dignity and development. He urged all stakeholders, including Government, Civil Society, development partners and citizens, to treat the report as a catalyst for action.

Other speakers at the launch echoed concerns raised in the report, addressing issues such as drug abuse, healthcare challenges, crime and climate change, further underscoring the interconnected nature of human rights challenges in Sierra Leone.

Attorney General Advocates Robust Regional Justice System at ECOWAS Judicial Council

Panel of officials at a formal meeting, with a banner behind them reading ECOWAS, the man in a blue suit speaking into a microphone beside others.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Sierra Leone’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, has called for stronger regional judicial cooperation across West Africa, describing it as critical to advancing justice, protecting human rights and deepening economic integration within the sub-region.

Speaking at the Statutory Meeting of the ECOWAS Judicial Council held at the Atlantic Lumley Hotel Conference Centre on Lumley Beach Road in Freetown on April 23, 2026, the Attorney General said the gathering comes at a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s legal evolution.

Addressing delegates, Alpha Sesay stated that the country is undergoing what he described as a “transformative legal renaissance,” driven by a series of reforms introduced under the leadership of Julius Maada Bio. He outlined key milestones including the enactment of the Criminal Procedure Act of 2024, the abolition of the death penalty, progressive gender laws, the criminalisation of child marriage and ongoing constitutional review processes aimed at strengthening democratic governance.

“Our direction is clear: to move away from justice for the few and toward justice for all,” he told participants, emphasizing the government’s commitment to building an inclusive and accessible justice system.

Despite these domestic gains, the Attorney General cautioned that no national justice system can operate effectively in isolation, particularly within a region confronted by transnational crime, evolving security challenges and shifting political landscapes. He underscored the importance of collective legal responses to shared threats, noting that stronger collaboration among ECOWAS member states is essential for effective justice delivery.

He described the ECOWAS Judicial Council as a vital institution in upholding the rule of law across the region, strengthening the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice and maintaining public trust in regional legal mechanisms. According to him, the Council’s oversight role is key to ensuring that citizens across West Africa view regional adjudication as both a safeguard against injustice and a protector of fundamental human rights.

Alpha Sesay further highlighted the economic implications of robust judicial cooperation, stating that a predictable and harmonised legal environment is crucial for attracting investment and facilitating cross-border trade. He noted that effective enforcement of judgments across jurisdictions remains central to building investor confidence and fostering regional prosperity.

“When we strengthen judicial cooperation, we do more than advance legal theory; we build the legal infrastructure for regional prosperity,” he said.

He also called on stakeholders to prioritize harmonization of legal frameworks, improved access to justice through the adoption of technology, and the reinforcement of judicial independence. He stressed that safeguarding the autonomy of courts is essential to maintaining fairness, credibility and public confidence in the justice system.

“Let us strengthen the safeguards that preserve judicial independence, ensuring that our courts remain enduring symbols of impartiality and truth,” he urged.

The Attorney General concluded by reminding delegates that the outcomes of the meeting in Freetown carry significant implications for more than 400 million citizens within the ECOWAS region, underscoring the Council’s responsibility in shaping the future of justice and governance across West Africa.

UNDP Unveils Circular Innovation Club at MMTU to Promote Youth-Led Solutions

A large group of people posing for a group photo in front of a building labeled 'THE GREAT HALL', with a UNDP banner on the right and a blue 'Youth for Circularity 2030' banner in the center.
MMTU administrators together with students pose for picture after the lunch of Circular Innovation Club (CIC) at Godrich Campus

By Ibrahim Sesay

The United Nations Development Programme Sierra Leone has officially launched a Circular Innovation Club at Milton Margai Technical University, Goderich Campus, in a move aimed at empowering students to develop sustainable solutions to pressing environmental and economic challenges. The launch, held on April 21, 2026, forms part of the Youth for Circularity 2030 Initiative, a programme designed to promote innovation and entrepreneurship among young people, particularly in addressing issues related to the management of end-of-life electronic devices. After the launching programme a training was conducted for its members.

Speaking at the event, Registrar of Milton Margai Technical University, Christiana Pearce, described the initiative as a timely intervention that will significantly enhance students’ capacity in modern technological practices. She noted that the training presents a valuable opportunity to equip students with relevant digital and practical skills, adding that the knowledge gained would not only benefit participants individually but also contribute meaningfully to national development. Christiana Pearce assured attendees of the university’s full support for the initiative and encouraged students to take the programme seriously, emphasizing its potential impact on communities and the broader economy.

Also addressing the gathering, Student Union President of Milton Margai Technical University, James French, highlighted the growing importance of youth participation in driving sustainable solutions. He stated that students must begin to see themselves not only as learners but as innovators and future problem solvers capable of transforming ideas into impactful solutions. James French described the Circular Innovation Club as a powerful platform that enables students to convert knowledge into action, while also building skills, networks and opportunities that can benefit both the university and the country. He urged students to actively participate, collaborate and take ownership of the initiative.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Milton Margai Technical University, Dr. Mohamed A. Jalloh, emphasized the critical role of innovation and continuous learning in today’s rapidly evolving world. He noted that progress can only be achieved through creative thinking and the willingness to expand beyond existing knowledge boundaries. Dr. Mohamed A. Jalloh commended the United Nations Development Programme Sierra Leone for including the university in the initiative and encouraged students to embrace interdisciplinary learning, stressing that well-rounded knowledge remains essential for both personal advancement and national development. He further underscored the importance of student-led clubs in fostering innovation, while urging participants to ensure formal registration of their associations in line with university regulations.

A presentation by United Nations Development Programme Project Analyst, Abu Bakarr Bangura, provided insight into the rationale behind the initiative, pointing to the rapid increase in mobile device usage, limited recycling infrastructure and a growing youth population as key factors driving the need for circular economy solutions in Sierra Leone. He explained that the programme is designed to build a robust circular economy ecosystem, promote digital skills development and create pathways for youth entrepreneurship through innovation hubs supported by UniPod. Abu Bakarr Bangura noted that the initiative is expected to equip young people with relevant skills, strengthen the national innovation ecosystem and improve safe practices in the management of end-of-life electronic devices, while also expanding opportunities for green entrepreneurship.

One of the participants, Mohamed Bangura, a computer science student, underscored the importance of establishing such innovation platforms within academic institutions. He expressed appreciation to the United Nations Development Programme for creating an avenue that enables students to innovate, collaborate and develop solutions to both existing and emerging challenges. Mohamed Bangura stated that the initiative provides an opportunity to better understand the management of electronic waste while simultaneously building skills that can generate employment and contribute to national development.

The event also featured a co-design workshop during which students engaged in identifying key challenges, proposing practical solutions and developing ideas for sustainable innovation. The Circular Innovation Club is expected to serve as a dynamic platform for student-led research, innovation and collaboration, ultimately contributing to Sierra Leone’s broader development agenda.

 

Orange Foundation Opens Call for Digital Skills Trainers Under ‘Threads of Hope’ Programme

Woman in an orange hijab speaks into a microphone at a podium on an orange foundation backdrop.

Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, with support from its Group Foundation, has announced a nationwide call for applications from qualified and reputable organizations to serve as Digital Skills Training Partners under a new initiative titled: “Threads of Hope,” aimed at expanding opportunities for youth and women through practical skills development.

The “Threads of Hope” project is a digital and creative skills development programme designed to empower 400 beneficiaries across the country, with a strong focus on vulnerable groups, particularly young people and women. The initiative seeks to equip participants with practical and market-relevant skills that can enhance employment prospects, support entrepreneurship and promote sustainable income generation, thereby contributing to more resilient and self-reliant communities.

According to the announcement, selected training partners will be responsible for delivering high-quality, hands-on instruction in key areas including T-shirt printing, graphic design and embroidery. The trainings are expected to commence in May 2026, subject to the completion of the partner selection and onboarding process.

Orange Foundation Sierra Leone emphasized that interested organizations must demonstrate proven technical expertise in their chosen training fields, as well as the availability of experienced and qualified trainers. Applicants are also required to show evidence of access to adequate training facilities and a conducive learning environment, alongside a track record of successfully delivering similar high-impact training programmes. Strong organizational capacity, professionalism and a commitment to quality delivery are also listed among the key eligibility requirements.

Organizations wishing to apply are expected to submit comprehensive applications that include their organizational profile and legal registration documents, details of relevant experience and past assignments, as well as a clearly outlined training approach and methodology. Applications should also provide information on trainers and key technical personnel, in addition to descriptions of available facilities and equipment, and any other supporting evidence demonstrating their capacity to effectively deliver the assignment.

Completed applications are to be submitted either in sealed envelopes or via email, clearly marked “Application for Threads of Hope Digital Skills Training Partner,” and addressed to Salieu Bangura at 25 Regent Road, Hill Station, or sent electronically to salieu.bangura@orange-sonatel.com. The deadline for submission has been set for April 30, 2026, with the Foundation noting that late submissions will not be considered.

Orange Foundation Sierra Leone further indicated that only shortlisted organizations will be contacted, stressing that submission of an application does not guarantee selection. The Foundation also reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications without providing justification, as it seeks to identify partners capable of delivering impactful and sustainable training outcomes under the “Threads of Hope” initiative.

Elba Foundation Backs Fire Safety Bill to Strengthen National Emergency Response

Group photo of a diverse crowd in uniforms and casual attire posing in a hall with a banner in the background.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

A multi-stakeholder engagement on the proposed Fire Safety Act has been convened by the National Fire Force, with strong backing from the Elba Foundation, bringing together Government institutions, private sector actors and Civil Society Organizations to shape a new legal framework aimed at improving fire prevention and emergency response in Sierra Leone. The engagement, held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the Labour Congress Hall on Wallace Johnson Street in Freetown, marked a significant phase in the public popularization of the Fire Safety Bill, which seeks to modernize outdated regulations and strengthen national systems for protecting lives and property.

The proposed legislation introduces a comprehensive framework focused on prevention, preparedness and enforcement. Key provisions include the establishment of safety standards for buildings, mandatory certification for public facilities, enhanced inspection powers for authorities and stricter regulation of flammable materials. The bill also outlines penalties for negligence and unsafe practices while seeking to strengthen the operational capacity of the National Fire Force through improved infrastructure, equipment and personnel.

Chief Fire Officer, Nazir Kamanda Bongay, described the engagement as a historic step, noting that it represents the first time the bill is being taken to the public for broad consultation. He emphasized that the initiative is driven by the urgent need to address increasing fire risks associated with unsafe electrical systems, poor construction standards and the storage of flammable substances in residential settings. He warned that without stronger preventive systems, the country remains vulnerable to large-scale fire disasters.

Central to the engagement is the role of the Elba Foundation, which funded and supported the initiative as part of its broader mission to build safer and more resilient communities. Chief Executive Officer, Edleen Elba, described the proposed Fire Safety Act as a critical national intervention rather than a routine legislative process, stating that it reflects a broader conversation about responsibility, safety and the value of human life. She noted that the Foundation’s involvement is grounded in its commitment to civic engagement and systems strengthening, highlighting fire safety as essential to safeguarding families, businesses and national development.

Edleen Elba further underscored that fire incidents have far-reaching consequences beyond the destruction of property, often disrupting education, livelihoods and community stability. Drawing from personal experiences with fire emergencies, she stressed the urgent need for stronger systems and increased public awareness. She also highlighted the challenges faced by firefighters, noting that many operate under difficult conditions with limited resources, yet continue to demonstrate commitment and courage in protecting lives.

She called for collective responsibility, urging Government to accelerate the passage of the bill, the private sector to treat fire safety as a necessary investment and citizens to adopt safer practices in their daily activities. She emphasized that fire prevention must become a shared national priority rather than the sole responsibility of the state.

Representing the Office of National Security, Gladys Sandy, reiterated that fire safety is a national concern with long-term implications for lives, infrastructure and development. She noted that the proposed law would help transform the National Fire Force from a reactive emergency service into a more preventive institution focused on risk reduction.

Also speaking at the engagement, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Edwards Ngaujah, emphasized that the bill is both timely and necessary, citing the increasing frequency and impact of fire outbreaks across homes, markets, schools and public institutions. He stated that the legislation would strengthen enforcement mechanisms, clarify responsibilities among property owners and institutions and improve national preparedness.

Edwards Ngaujah further noted that the bill seeks to expand fire service infrastructure, including the construction of additional fire stations and the recruitment of more personnel. He stressed that effective implementation will depend on public understanding and participation, urging citizens to actively engage with the bill and support its passage.

The engagement forms part of a broader national effort to build a proactive fire safety culture anchored on prevention, awareness and institutional strengthening. Stakeholders at the meeting agreed that sustained collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society will be essential to achieving the objectives of the proposed law. The event concluded with a renewed call for unity and coordinated action to ensure the passage and implementation of the Fire Safety Act, positioning it as a critical step toward safeguarding lives, protecting property and strengthening national resilience.

 

BSSL Distributes Advanced Biblical Texts to Colleges Across Freetown, Bo, Makeni and Kono

Group of people in colorful outfits posing behind a table with stacked books at a community event with blue and gold drapes.

The Bible Society of Sierra Leone (BSSL) has commenced the distribution of scholarly edition biblical texts to theological colleges across the country, in a move aimed at strengthening theological education and deepening scriptural scholarship.

BSSL, a non-denominational Christian organization dedicated to the translation of the Bible into various Sierra Leonean languages, is a member of the United Bible Societies (UBS), a global network operating in over 200 countries. UBS works to ensure the widest possible and meaningful distribution of the Holy Scriptures while encouraging engagement with the Word of God.

As part of its ongoing collaboration with churches, universities and faith-based institutions, BSSL recently donated a range of advanced theological texts to institutions in Freetown, Bo, Makeni and Kono, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence in ministry training.

At the Evangelical College of Theology, Principal Rev. Dr. Warren Fornah welcomed the delegation and commended the Bible Society for its continued contribution to Christian education. He later led the team to a chapel session attended by students.

Delivering a message during the session, the General Secretary of BSSL, Edwin Fraser, spoke on the theme: “Truths That Will Carry You in Ministry,” drawn from Proverbs 29:18. He urged students to remain steadfast in their academic pursuits and uphold integrity, particularly during examinations, noting that honesty is foundational to effective ministry.

The donated materials included key scholarly resources such as NT Graece NA28 Greek-English Dictionary, A New Approach to Textual Criticism, Synopsis of the Four Gospels, Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament, and the Bible English Atlas. These were formally presented to Rev. Dr. Fornah for use within the institution’s academic library.

In his vote of thanks, the college registrar, Rev. Sawo Koroma, described the donation as timely, highlighting the urgent need for updated and relevant academic texts. He expressed appreciation to the Bible Society and assured that the materials would be carefully preserved given their high value.

The BSSL team also extended its outreach to the College of Theology, Management and Church Training Centre on Wesley Street in Freetown. The delegation was warmly received by Principal Rev. Dr. Ken Luseni, who emphasized the central role of theology in shaping the institution and noted that many pastors and bishops have been trained through its programmes.

Speaking during the visit, Edwin Fraser outlined the purpose of the donation, stressing the importance of equipping theological institutions with high-quality academic resources. The same set of scholarly texts was presented to the college.

In her remarks, Registrar Rev. Selina Pratt described the books as invaluable to advancing theological education in Sierra Leone. She noted that such materials are rarely available in local bookstores and commended the Bible Society for its significant investment in the growth of theology in the country. She further assured that the resources would be used responsibly to benefit both students and faculty.

Similar donations have been made to theological institutions in Makeni, Bo and Kono as part of a broader nationwide initiative.

The Bible Society has indicated that additional distributions will continue to other colleges offering theology programmes, as it seeks to expand access to critical scholarly resources and support the development of future religious leaders across Sierra Leone.

MCC Commends Sierra Leone’s Reform Progress as Finance Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Compact

Group of ten professionals in business attire posing for a photo in a conference room with flags behind them (U.S. flag and another flag).

The Government of Sierra Leone has received strong commendation from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Authority in Washington, D.C., following high-level engagements that underscored the country’s continued progress toward meeting key Compact requirements.

During a strategic meeting with senior Government officials, Acting Managing Director of the Department of Compact Operations, Madam Carrie Monahan, expressed satisfaction with Sierra Leone’s advancement under the MCC framework. She highlighted notable milestones, including the establishment of the Millennium Challenge Authority–Sierra Leone and ongoing discussions surrounding a critical minerals agreement, both of which signal the country’s readiness to deepen its partnership with the MCC.

Madam Carrie Monahan, however, emphasized the importance of the Government fulfilling its financial obligations to enable the formal signing of the Entry into Force agreement, a crucial step toward unlocking the full benefits of the Compact.

Reaffirming the Government’s position, Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, conveyed appreciation for the MCC’s sustained engagement and reiterated President Julius Maada Bio’s unwavering commitment to the Compact programme. He assured stakeholders that Sierra Leone remains focused on meeting all requirements necessary for successful implementation.

The Finance Minister outlined ongoing reforms within the energy sector, describing them as central to improving efficiency and sustainability. Among those measures are the establishment of a Collection Account and strategic efforts to enhance private sector participation in electricity distribution; initiatives aimed at strengthening financial discipline and boosting operational performance across the sector.

In a further demonstration of Sierra Leone’s commitment to creating an enabling investment climate, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura disclosed that Cabinet has approved the country’s proposed membership in the Africa Trade and Investment Development Insurance (ATIDI). He noted that the move is expected to stimulate investor confidence by providing insurance coverage against trade and investment risks, thereby encouraging greater capital inflows.

Also speaking at the meeting, Director of the Department of Policy and Evaluation, Madam Naureen Haque, commended Sierra Leone’s performance on the MCC scorecard. She urged the Government to sustain reform momentum, particularly in areas such as economic freedom, electoral processes and the promotion of national unity.

Responding to those recommendations, the Minister reaffirmed the Government’s inclusive approach, stressing its commitment to engaging all relevant stakeholders in the ongoing electoral reform process as well as in implementing the national unity agreement.

In her concluding remarks, Madam Naureen Haque described Sierra Leone as a “real success story” within the MCC framework, praising the depth of engagement between the Corporation and the Government.

The Finance Minister was accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Minister of Energy, Cyril Grant; Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the United States, Amara Sowa; Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie; Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens; Chief Economist at the Ministry of Finance, Alimamy Bangura; and Technical Adviser to the Minister of Finance, Dr. Franklin Sisabu Bendu.

The meeting signals renewed momentum in Sierra Leone’s pursuit of the MCC Compact, reinforcing international confidence in the country’s reform trajectory and governance framework.

SLPP Endorses Electoral Reforms While Insisting on ECSL Independence

Portrait of a man wearing a green polo shirt and a green cap with the word PARAN, facing the camera.
SLPP National Secretary General, Paran Tarawally

The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to electoral integrity, constitutional governance and inclusive political dialogue, following the outcomes of the recent Joint Assessment Mission conducted by International Moral Guarantors in Sierra Leone.

In a detailed Press Statement issued on April 21, 2026 and signed by its National Secretary General, Paran Umar Tarawally, the ruling party expressed appreciation to key international partners, including ECOWAS, UNOWAS and the Commonwealth, for their continued support towards peace, stability and democratic consolidation in the country.

The party paid special tribute to former Gambian Vice President, Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, for her leadership role in guiding the process from its inception, noting that her efforts have been instrumental in sustaining dialogue and fostering cooperation among stakeholders.

Reaffirming its position as the governing party, the SLPP underscored President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to implementing both the Agreement for National Unity and the recommendations outlined in the Tripartite Committee Report. The party noted that such commitment was further demonstrated during the recent engagement between the President and the International Moral Guarantors.

Central to the SLPP’s position is a strong defense of the independence of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL). Referencing Section 32(11) of the Constitution, the party stressed that the Commission must operate free from external direction or control, warning against any attempt by Parliament to exercise oversight over constitutionally independent institutions.

“The Electoral Commission shall not be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority,” the statement emphasized, adding that such independence is critical to maintaining public confidence in the electoral process.

The SLPP further argued that just as Parliament does not oversee institutions such as the Judiciary, the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Audit Service Sierra Leone, it should equally refrain from exercising administrative oversight over the ECSL.

On electoral reforms, the party welcomed the expansion of the Tripartite Steering Committee to include other political parties and Civil Society Organizations, describing the move as a step towards ensuring broader representation and inclusivity in the reform process.

The party also reiterated its support for proportional representation, aligning with its longstanding policy stance, while commending international partners for upholding parliamentary procedures in relation to the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill 2025.

Addressing national cohesion issues, the SLPP reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with all political actors, including the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), particularly in areas such as the ongoing Population and Housing Census and broader governance processes.

While welcoming the APC’s decision to end its boycott, the ruling party urged the opposition to adopt more constructive and mature approaches to national issues. It cautioned that persistent boycotts and threats could undermine constitutional provisions, particularly Section 35(1), which outlines the responsibilities of political parties in shaping the political will of the people.

The SLPP also took a firm stance against hate speech and incitement, reiterating its zero-tolerance policy on inflammatory rhetoric, which it said poses a threat to national unity and democratic stability.

Commending both Government and opposition delegations, as well as development partners and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, the party acknowledged their collective efforts in resolving operational challenges within the Tripartite process.

However, the SLPP expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of a recent Press Statement issued by the APC National Secretariat, describing portions of it as unhelpful and unnecessary. The party warned that such rhetoric could erode trust and weaken the spirit of cooperation among political actors.

Despite those concerns, the SLPP maintained that it remains fully committed to engaging all stakeholders in advancing electoral reforms, strengthening democratic institutions and promoting sustainable peace in Sierra Leone.

The statement comes at a critical time in the country’s political landscape, as efforts continue to consolidate democratic gains and build consensus around key governance reforms.

Transport Minister Champions AFCAC Amendment as Catalyst for Aviation Growth

Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay

Sierra Leone’s Parliament has ratified an amendment to Article 10(4) of the Constitution of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), in a move aimed at reinforcing the country’s aviation and transport sector.

The decision was taken during a parliamentary sitting held on April 21, 2026 in Freetown on Tuesday, signaling the Government’s continued commitment to aligning with continental frameworks designed to enhance air transport governance and efficiency across Africa.

The amendment, which was originally adopted during the 28th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa on January 31, 2017, seeks to improve coordination, institutional effectiveness and operational efficiency within Africa’s civil aviation landscape.

Presenting the agreement before lawmakers, Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, described the ratification as a critical step toward advancing Sierra Leone’s transport infrastructure. He emphasized that the amendment would facilitate the establishment of stronger mechanisms to boost efficiency, while also promoting the sustainable growth of the aviation sector at both national and international levels.

“This ratification reflects our determination to modernize and strengthen the aviation sector in line with global standards,” the Minister noted, adding that enhanced cooperation under AFCAC would open new opportunities for investment, connectivity and regulatory improvement.

Concluding the debate, Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Mathew Sahr Nyuma, underscored the importance of the amendment in positioning Sierra Leone within the broader framework of international aviation best practices. He further highlighted the significance of quorum in parliamentary proceedings, noting that due process was observed before the resolution was formally adopted.

The ratification is expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen aviation safety, regulatory oversight and sector competitiveness, as Sierra Leone continues to pursue strategic reforms within its transport ecosystem.

In his closing remarks, Alhaji Fanday Turay expressed gratitude to Parliament for its support and disclosed that additional agreements and legislative instruments would be presented in due course to further consolidate gains within the sector.

Government Orders Undocumented Foreign Nationals to Regularize Status or Face Sanctions

Illustration of a resident permit card with photo, personal details, and holographic security features.

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Authorities in Sierra Leone have launched a nationwide enforcement drive requiring all foreign nationals living and working in the country to regularize their legal status or face possible sanctions.

The directive, announced by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, mandates strict compliance with key immigration and identification requirements, including the possession of valid Non-National Identity Cards, Residence Permits and Work Permits.

Officials say the initiative is part of a broader government strategy to tighten national security and improve oversight of non-citizens through the establishment of a centralized and reliable database. The move is expected to enhance the state’s ability to monitor residency and employment activities involving foreign nationals across the country.

Under the new enforcement measures, all affected individuals are required to obtain the relevant documentation and keep it readily available at all times. Authorities have cautioned that non-compliance will attract enforcement actions, although details of specific penalties were not disclosed.

To ease the process, the government has provided an online platform for applications and renewals of residence and work permits, aimed at improving accessibility and efficiency.

Several key institutions, including the Office of National Security, the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department and the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), are collaborating to ensure the smooth implementation of the exercise.

The Government has urged full compliance from foreign nationals and stakeholders, describing the enforcement as a critical step toward strengthening regulatory systems, safeguarding national interests and promoting orderly migration management in Sierra Leone.

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