CHRDI Poll: 68% Reject PR System, 98% Want Fixed Election Dates in Sierra Leone

 A new citizens’ opinion poll conducted by the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has revealed strong public demand for greater accountability, transparency, and unity in Sierra Leone’s democratic system, with many respondents rejecting proposed electoral changes and calling for stronger civic education.

The survey shows that 68% of Sierra Leoneans oppose the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system, insisting instead on direct constituency-based representation that allows voters to elect individuals who can be held accountable to their communities.

Similarly, 74% of respondents rejected proposals to lower the electoral threshold, arguing that doing so could fragment the political landscape and weaken national cohesion.

The findings also highlight a major gap in civic education, with 60% of respondents saying they lack sufficient information to make informed decisions about the proposed 2025 Constitutional Amendment Bill. According to the poll, this underscores the urgent need for government and civil society organisations to intensify public awareness campaigns before any major constitutional reforms are undertaken.

The debate surrounding diaspora participation in governance also revealed divided public opinion. While 50% of respondents support granting parliamentary eligibility to dual citizens, citing the potential to benefit from the skills and expertise of Sierra Leoneans abroad, 44% expressed concerns about loyalty and national commitment.

One issue that received overwhelming support was the introduction of fixed election dates, with 98% of respondents saying it would enhance predictability and strengthen democratic stability in the country.

Respondents also strongly backed the inclusion of enforceable socio-economic rights in the constitution, with 82% calling for legally guaranteed access to healthcare and education.

However, the poll also reflects frustration with ongoing political reform discussions. 57% of respondents criticised the pace of the Tripartite Steering Committee, established to address post-election political concerns following the disputed 2023 elections involving the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC).

Many respondents said the committee must move beyond dialogue and deliver concrete outcomes that address electoral reforms and governance concerns.

CHRDI says the findings demonstrate that citizens want a democratic system grounded in accountability, transparency, and unity, while urging policymakers to ensure that reforms reflect the voices of ordinary Sierra Leoneans.

The organisation has encouraged the public to follow its official communication platforms for further analysis and updates from the citizens’ opinion poll.