89% of Sierra Leoneans Reject One-Party System of Government

89% of Sierra Leoneans Reject One-Party System of Government – Afrobarometer Report

A new Afrobarometer survey has revealed a strong rejection of one-party rule among Sierra Leoneans.

The findings, released in the report “Africa Insights: Democracy at Risk, the People’s Perspective,” indicate that 89% of Sierra Leoneans oppose a return to a single-party system.

Awoko reports that this represents a significant shift from the country’s past, as Sierra Leone was once governed by a one-party state. Now, the overwhelming majority of citizens favor a multi-party democratic system.

Professor Fredline Mcormack-Hale, Director of Research and Policy at the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) and Co-Investigator at Afrobarometer, presented the report to journalists. She noted that Sierra Leone’s stance against one-party rule has solidified over time, increasing from 84% in a previous survey. Additionally, 93% of respondents rejected authoritarian rule by a single leader.

The survey highlights Sierra Leone’s commitment to democratic principles, with 83% of citizens supporting this form of government. Other key findings include strong support for presidential term limits (72%), government accountability (71%), media independence (56%), and a non-interventionist military (53%).

While Sierra Leone demonstrates progress in certain areas, Mcormack-Hale emphasized the need to address ongoing challenges. The report also revealed broader trends across Africa, with a majority of citizens supporting democracy but expressing declining satisfaction with its performance in recent years.

As democracies worldwide face pressures, Sierra Leone’s steadfast support for pluralistic governance offers a positive example. However, the country must remain vigilant in protecting democratic values and addressing the evolving challenges to its democratic system.

Comment(s)

Disclaimer: Comments expressed here do not reflect the opinions of Sierraloaded or any employee thereof.

Amara | 2024-07-27 20:55:18

When was the survey carried out and by whom? I very well know that no such survey has been conducted in the provinces, especially in the South East of the county. Remember that Freetown is not Sierra Leone. It is just the capital city.
Senior | 2024-07-27 20:39:51

This is nothing but an APC propaganda. Personally I think a one party system of government is the best for mama Salone. The sooner we get rid of the APC the better it will be for the country. APC is not good for Sierra Leone and not good for themselves. The APC party should be devolved and declared a terrorist party. If the party leaders cause any problems, they should be given long jail sentences like 80 or 100 years each. This way peace will return to our country.
| 2024-07-24 09:37:13

We need too party State
| 2024-07-23 18:44:34

Returning to war again! This can't be. 2 terms in government by 1 party nearly brought war
| 2024-07-23 18:39:12

I'm more worried about those 11% bastards who wants a single party state