The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) expressed significant concern over the controversy and uncertainty surrounding Parliament’s consideration of the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This concern arose from the complex issues presented by the proposed legislation and the subsequent parliamentary proceedings. SLAJ issued a full Press Release on August 12, 2026, articulating its position and offering guidance during this critical period. In this release, the association specifically welcomed the Speaker of Parliament’s decision to refer the constitutional question to the Supreme Court for interpretation. This move was seen by SLAJ as a key step towards resolving the legal ambiguities that had emerged. SLAJ called on political parties and other stakeholders across the nation to exercise restraint and refrain from actions or inflammatory rhetoric. The association emphasized that such rhetoric could dangerously heighten political tensions or weaken public confidence in Sierra Leone’s vital constitutional institutions, thereby undermining the country's democratic foundations.
Parliamentary Vote Sparks Debate
A key moment occurred when Members of Parliament from the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) withdrew from the Chamber before the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was put to a vote. Despite their withdrawal, Parliament subsequently announced that the proposed legislation had received the required number of votes to pass. This outcome, however, did not quell the rising unease; instead, it generated widespread public debate concerning the interpretation and application of specific provisions in the 1991 Constitution, particularly those relating to the voting threshold necessary for constitutional amendments. The controversy noted deep divisions and differing legal opinions among various political and civil society groups. Engagements surrounding the entire process, including the dialogue held at Tokeh, had initially raised expectations that the constitutional reform process would be characterized by broad-based consultation and consensus among all stakeholders, a hope that appeared to be challenged by the recent events.
SLAJ's Position and Appeals
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), through its Secretary General Edward Farah Marrah, publicly articulated its strong support for the decision to seek the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the disputed constitutional question. This endorsement showed the association's belief in the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary as the ultimate arbiter in such matters. Mr. Marrah emphasized the importance of a clear and authoritative ruling from the highest court. SLAJ urged all political actors, state institutions, and citizens alike to respect and abide by the Court’s eventual determination on the matter, stressing that adherence to the judicial process is fundamental for maintaining national stability and trust in democratic institutions.
The association also called upon journalists and media houses to continue providing the public with accurate, balanced, fair, and contextual information as the constitutional question proceeds through the relevant legal and democratic channels. This appeal noted the media's key role in informing the public responsibly during times of national debate. SLAJ appealed to all political actors to prioritize the national interest above narrow partisan considerations. The association further emphasized the critical importance of protecting the peace, tolerance, and national cohesion that Sierra Leoneans have worked diligently and sacrificially to build over many years, recognizing these as cornerstones of the nation's progress.
Media's Role and Public Engagement
In the wake of the parliamentary vote and the ensuing public discourse, media houses across Sierra Leone provided extensive platforms for a wide array of voices. Politicians, legal experts, political commentators, and other stakeholders were given opportunities to debate, interrogate, and scrutinize the proposed amendments and the procedural issues that arose. This strong media engagement played a vital role in fostering public understanding and allowing diverse perspectives to be heard. The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) commended media institutions and individual journalists for their extensive and sustained coverage of the parliamentary debates, the procedural proceedings, and the eventual vote. Their commitment to reporting on these complex issues was recognized as essential for a functioning democracy.