Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, leader of the DIB Movement and flagbearer aspirant for the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), has appealed for restraint and judicial clarity following Parliament’s passage of the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill 2025, describing the development as a matter of considerable national importance.
In a detailed statement issued over the weekend, Dr. Bangura stressed that any amendment to the nation’s founding document must be approached with due care, respect for established process, and a shared commitment to preserving public confidence in Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions.
The political leader welcomed the decision by the Speaker of Parliament to refer the contentious bill to the Supreme Court under Section 94(2) of the Constitution for an advisory opinion, expressing confidence that the judiciary would provide the legal clarity needed to guide the nation through what he characterised as a delicate moment in the country’s constitutional history.
Dr. Bangura, who is vying for the APC’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2028 elections, cautioned against any hasty implementation of the amendments before the Supreme Court has rendered its advisory opinion, noting that the legitimacy of the legislative process depends on adherence to constitutional safeguards and the rule of law.
He further emphasised that constitutional governance thrives on transparency, dialogue, and the active participation of all stakeholders, and called on political actors across the spectrum to exercise restraint and allow the judicial process to run its full course without undue interference or premature commentary.
The amendment bill, which was passed by Parliament earlier this month, has sparked intense debate among legal practitioners, civil society groups, and political parties, with critics raising concerns about certain provisions they argue could undermine the independence of the judiciary and alter the delicate balance of power enshrined in the 1991 Constitution.
Dr. Bangura reiterated his commitment to the principles of good governance and constitutionalism, urging Sierra Leoneans to remain calm and trust in the ability of the Supreme Court to deliver a reasoned and impartial advisory opinion that would serve the best interests of the nation and its people.
