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A majority of Sierra Leoneans have rejected the proportional representation (PR) system, with 68% saying they prefer constituency-based elections, according to a new opinion poll conducted by the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI).
The survey suggests strong public support for the first-past-the-post system, which allows voters to directly elect representatives accountable to specific communities.
The findings come as Sierra Leone debates electoral reforms linked to the proposed 2025 constitutional amendment process, which could shape the country’s democratic framework in the years ahead.
However, the poll also highlights a significant challenge, with 60% of respondents saying they lack sufficient civic education to make informed decisions on the proposed reforms.
“This gap in civic understanding risks undermining meaningful participation in the reform process,” CHRDI said. “There is an urgent need for sustained voter education to ensure inclusivity and legitimacy.”
CHRDI said the preference for constituency-based elections reflects a broader demand for accountability, with many respondents arguing that direct representation strengthens the relationship between voters and their elected officials.
“Our findings show that citizens want a system where leaders are directly answerable to the people they represent,” the organisation added.
The survey also found that 74% of respondents oppose lowering the electoral threshold, citing concerns that it could lead to political fragmentation and weaken national unity.
On diaspora participation, opinion remains divided. Half of respondents support dual citizenship, saying it could bring skills and expertise into Parliament, while 44% raised concerns about divided loyalties.
Despite these divisions, there was overwhelming agreement on some governance reforms. Nearly all respondents 98% backed fixed election dates, pointing to the need for predictability and stability in the electoral process.
In addition, 82% called for enforceable rights to healthcare and education, signalling growing public expectations for improved service delivery and stronger government accountability.
The poll also points to frustration with the pace of reform efforts. Some 57% of respondents criticised the Tripartite Steering Committee, saying it has focused too much on discussions and delivered too little tangible progress.
“Citizens are increasingly impatient with slow institutional processes and expect concrete outcomes,” CHRDI said.
The organisation noted that the findings show Sierra Leoneans are not only concerned with how elections are conducted, but also with the broader performance of democratic institutions.
The results suggest that as reform discussions continue, public demand for accountability, inclusion and effective governance is likely to play an increasingly central role in shaping the country’s political direction.
