-Says Presidential Spokesman
By Marian Magdalene Bangura
Strategic Communications Unit – MOICE
Presidential Spokesman Alpha Khan has described Sierra Leone’s recent constitutional and electoral reforms as a major milestone in the country’s democratic journey, emphasizing their role in promoting peace, inclusion and political stability.
Speaking at the Government’s Weekly Press Conference held on Tuesday, 11th August 2026, at the Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown, Khan reflected on Sierra Leone’s transition from one-party rule to multi-party democracy in 1991, describing it as a defining moment in the nation’s political history.
He said the country’s experience of civil war and the subsequent Truth and Reconciliation process underscored the need to strengthen democratic institutions and prevent a recurrence of political violence.
Khan highlighted the extensive nationwide consultations undertaken during the constitutional review, involving public meetings, interviews, radio programmes and engagements with citizens across the country.
“We have never had anything that extensive in consultation,” he said, noting that the process was designed to ensure that proposed reforms reflected the aspirations of Sierra Leoneans.
Among the reforms highlighted were changes to the electoral system, including proportional representation and adjustments to the threshold for winning presidential elections. Khan said the measures are intended to reduce electoral tensions, improve political representation and minimise the risk of violence, particularly during presidential run-offs.
He also stressed the importance of increasing women’s participation in elected leadership, describing inclusive political representation as essential to building a peaceful and sustainable democracy.
Khan said the Government accepted the key recommendations through a White Paper, followed by legislative action to give effect to the reforms.
“Yesterday, we witnessed what we can call a watershed moment,” he said, underscoring the significance of the reforms to Sierra Leone’s democratic development.
He urged citizens to recognize the lessons of the country’s past, including the civil war and its consequences, while supporting democratic reforms that protect peace, national cohesion and the interests of future generations.
