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A new public opinion poll conducted by the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has revealed significant levels of public distrust in Sierra Leone’s two main political parties regarding their ability to effectively manage the country’s economy and national security ahead of the 2028 general elections.
The survey asked citizens: “As we approach the 2028 general elections, which political party do you have the least confidence in to manage Sierra Leone’s economy and national security effectively?”
According to the poll results, 50.9 percent of respondents identified the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) as the party they have the least confidence in to effectively manage the economy and national security. Meanwhile, 37.3 percent expressed the least confidence in the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC).
The poll further found that 8.5 percent of respondents were unsure, while 3.3 percent indicated that neither party was their least preferred option.
CHRDI noted that the findings point to a broader crisis of public confidence in the country’s political leadership. While more than half of respondents expressed distrust in the ruling party, the organization observed that a substantial proportion of citizens also lack confidence in the main opposition.
According to CHRDI’s analysis, the results suggest that many Sierra Leoneans remain unconvinced that either of the two dominant political parties can adequately address the country’s economic challenges and security concerns.
The organization warned that declining public trust in political institutions can have far-reaching consequences, particularly for vulnerable groups. It highlighted that issues such as poverty, inflation, and insecurity often have the greatest impact on women, young people, and rural communities.
In response to the findings, CHRDI called for urgent reforms aimed at rebuilding public confidence in governance and state institutions. The organization emphasized the need for greater transparency, accountable leadership, inclusive economic policies, and citizen-centred governance.
CHRDI further urged political leaders and policymakers to move beyond partisan rhetoric and focus on addressing the concerns of ordinary citizens as the country prepares for the next electoral cycle.
The poll comes at a time when discussions surrounding governance, economic management, and national security continue to feature prominently in Sierra Leone’s political landscape, with stakeholders increasingly emphasizing the importance of restoring public trust in democratic institutions.
