By Sylvester Samai
In recent months, the political landscape of Sierra Leone has been stirred by rumours and speculations about President Julius Maada Bio’s potential intention to seek a third term in office. This possibility has sparked intense debate and concern among citizens, political analysts, and international observers. While some view it as a continuity of leadership that could bolster on-going development projects, others see it as a threat to democracy and a possible return to autocratic rule.
Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution explicitly limits the president to two five-year terms. Article 46(1) states, “No person shall hold office as President for more than two terms of five years each, whether or not the terms are consecutive.” This clause was designed to ensure the periodic transfer of power and prevent the entrenchment of authoritarian rule.
For President Bio to secure a third term, a constitutional amendment would be necessary. Amending the constitution requires a two-thirds majority in parliament and, potentially, a national referendum. The process is complex and fraught with political and legal challenges, raising questions about its feasibility and the president’s intentions.
President Julius Maada Bio, a former military leader who became the head of state in 2018, has had a mixed record in office. His administration has made significant strides in areas such as education, healthcare, and anti-corruption. The Free Quality School Education programme, which provides free primary and secondary education, has been widely praised. Bio’s government has also worked to improve healthcare infrastructure and services, although challenges remain.
On the economic front, Bio’s administration has faced criticism for failing to deliver substantial growth and job creation. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified existing economic woes, leading to increased unemployment and poverty rates. Furthermore, allegations of corruption and human rights abuses have marred his tenure, leading to calls for greater transparency and accountability.
The political landscape in Sierra Leone is deeply polarised. The ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) dominate the political scene, with other smaller parties struggling to gain significant traction. President Bio’s potential bid for a third term could aggravate existing political tensions and lead to instability.
However, supporters of President Bio argue that his leadership is crucial for the continued implementation of key reforms and development projects. They claim that a third term would provide the stability needed to complete these initiatives and ensure their long-term success. Furthermore, opponents however, view a third-term bid as a dangerous precedent that could undermine democratic principles and lead to autocracy. They argue that it would erode the constitutional framework designed to prevent the concentration of power in one individual and jeopardize the progress made in democratic governance.
Public opinion on President Bio’s potential third term is divided. While some citizens appreciate the government’s efforts in education and healthcare, many are concerned about the implications for democracy and the rule of law. Protests and demonstrations against the idea have been reported, reflecting widespread unease and opposition. The youth, in particular, have been vocal in expressing their concerns. Sierra Leone’s young population is increasingly engaged in political discourse and demands greater accountability and transparency from their leaders. The prospect of a third term for President Bio has galvanized youth activism, with many calling for adherence to constitutional limits and democratic principles. The international community is closely monitoring developments in Sierra Leone. Countries and organisations that support democratic governance and human rights are likely to scrutinise any moves towards a third term. International partners, including the United Nations, the African Union, and ECOWAS, have historically emphasised the importance of constitutional adherence and democratic transitions.
A third-term bid could potentially strain Sierra Leone’s relationships with international donors and partners. The country relies heavily on foreign aid and support for development projects, and any perceived deviation from democratic norms could jeopardize this assistance. Amending the constitution to allow a third term is a daunting task. It requires broad political consensus and significant public support, both of which are currently lacking. The SLPP would need to secure a two-thirds majority in Parliament. At the launch of the All People’s Congress parliamentary group, the party’s leader in government alleged that the review process has been started without their participation and expressed the hope that the rumour was not true, as the APC should not be left in the dark on such a crucial bipartisan issue.
Meanwhile even if the constitutional amendments were to pass in Parliament, it would likely face legal challenges and public resistance. Civil society organisations, opposition parties, and activists are prepared to contest any attempts to alter the constitutional term limits, both in court and through public demonstrations.
The issue of third-term bids is not new in Africa. Several countries on the continent have faced similar challenges, with varying outcomes. In some cases, leaders have successfully amended constitutions to extend their rule, often leading to political instability and unrest (Case in point: Neighbouring Guinea where the military overthrew Professor Alpha Conde for amending the Constitution to give him a third berth or presidential term). In other cases, public and international pressure have thwarted such attempts, preserving democratic principles.
For Sierra Leone, the historical precedent within the region serves as a cautionary tale. The experiences of neighbouring countries highlight the potential risks and consequences of extending presidential term limits, including political unrest, economic downturns, and deterioration of democratic institutions.
Several scenarios could unfold regarding President Bio’s potential third-term bid: Constitutional Amendment Fails – The constitutional amendment process will fail to gain the necessary support in parliament or through a referendum. This would maintain the current two-term limit and prevent President Bio from seeking a third term.
Constitutional Amendment Succeeds: If the amendment process is successful, it could lead to significant political upheaval. Opposition parties and civil society groups would likely mobilise against the move, potentially leading to protests and unrest. President Bio Steps Down: Another possibility is that if President Bio chooses to respect the constitutional limits and steps down after his second term. This would likely be seen as a positive move for democracy and could enhance his legacy as a leader committed to democratic principles.
Power Transition within SLPP: A power transition within the SLPP could occur, with the party nominating a new candidate for the next presidential election. This scenario would allow for continuity of the party’s policies while adhering to constitutional limits.
The possibility of President Julius Maada Bio seeking a third term in office has stirred significant debate and concern in Sierra Leone. While his administration has made some minimal achievements, the potential bid raises critical questions about the future of democracy in the country. The constitutional, political, and social implications of a third-term bid are profound and multifaceted.
Adherence to constitutional limits is essential for preserving democratic governance and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power. As Sierra Leone navigates this critical juncture, the actions and decisions of its leaders will have far-reaching implications for the country’s democratic trajectory and stability. The international community, civil society, and citizens must remain vigilant and engaged to uphold the principles of democracy and the rule of law in Sierra Leone.