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The Government of Sierra Leone has approved a series of key Cabinet papers covering procurement reform, judicial conditions of service, anti-fraud laws and steps toward abolishing the death penalty, showing a continued push for transparency and public accountability.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press conference, Minister Chernor Bah disclosed that the decisions were taken during the last Cabinet meeting held on 11th March 2026, chaired by President Julius Maada Bio.
“This is the first government in the history of Sierra Leone where Cabinet conclusions are shared with the public every week. Before, Cabinet was behind the veil, nobody knew anything. Now, you need to know,” the Minister stated.
Among the major approvals is a comprehensive review of the Public Procurement Act of 2016, aimed at improving transparency, efficiency and value for money in the use of public funds. The reform is expected to address long-standing concerns about how government contracts are awarded and managed.
Cabinet also approved a proposal to review and improve the conditions of service for judges, including the preparation of a new amendment bill. Minister Bah noted that this move is intended to reflect current realities within the judiciary and strengthen the justice system.
On governance and public protection, Cabinet endorsed a new legal framework to combat fraudulent schemes, including online investment scams and overseas travel fraud. “This framework is to better protect the state and our citizens from emerging forms of exploitation,” Bah explained.
In a significant human rights step, Cabinet approved actions for Sierra Leone to sign and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, reinforcing the country’s commitment to abolishing the death penalty.
At the international level, Cabinet approved Sierra Leone’s accession to the International Organization for Mediation, a move expected to strengthen the country’s role in peaceful dispute resolution. It also endorsed an agreement to provide humanitarian support, including reception and temporary hosting services, under the Third Country National Arrangement in collaboration with international partners.
Additionally, funding was approved to support the government’s legal defence in ongoing international arbitration proceedings. “We want to ensure that Sierra Leone is properly represented and that our national interests are protected,” the Minister emphasized.
Minister Bah reiterated that making Cabinet decisions public is part of a broader governance shift to keep citizens informed about policies shaping national development. “Cabinet conclusions are no longer secret. Citizens have a right to know the decisions being taken on their behalf,” he said.
