President Bio Refers Amendment Bill to Supreme Court
Freetown, Monday, 14 September 2026 – President Julius Maada Bio has referred the “Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Act, 2026” to the Supreme Court for review. This decision follows the Bill’s presentation on 10 September 2026, after the Clerk of Parliament submitted it for the President’s assent.
On 4 September 2026, the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) submitted a petition highlighting constitutional concerns about how the Bill was passed through Parliament.
The President has been attentive to the discussions surrounding the Bill and emphasises the need for legislation that affects the nation’s constitutional and democratic integrity to receive broad public support. He believes that any changes should be grounded in clear constitutional principles to build trust among citizens.
Following Section 122(1) of the 1991 Constitution, President Bio has tasked the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice with managing the referral process to the Supreme Court.
He has also informed the Clerk of Parliament that if the Supreme Court does not deliver its opinion within fourteen days of the Bill’s submission, he will present his final decision to Parliament immediately upon receiving the verdict. This move reflects the President’s commitment to handling significant national issues with transparency and constitutional integrity.
