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Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, former Deputy Speaker of Parliament and a 2028 flagbearer aspirant of the All People’s Congress (APC), has provided a constitutional perspective on executive transitions, emphasizing that political power in Sierra Leone resides solely with the electorate.
Bah’s remarks come amid ongoing political discourse involving the Sierra Leone People’s Party, where questions have been raised regarding the nature of presidential succession and the role of incumbency in determining future leadership.
Addressing the issue, Bah underscored that the presidency does not have the authority to transfer power to any political party or individual. Instead, he maintained that leadership is determined exclusively through the democratic will of the people.
“In a robust democracy, power is not a commodity for a sitting President to bestow,” Bah stated. “It is the inherent right of the citizens of Sierra Leone. Any suggestion that executive transition is a gift from the incumbent contradicts the core principles of democratic governance.”
He further clarified the distinction between executive authority and electoral processes, noting that while the President plays a role in ensuring a smooth transition, that role remains largely procedural rather than determinative of electoral outcomes. According to Bah, the mandate to govern is conferred solely by voters through constitutionally established processes.
Referencing Sierra Leone’s political history, Bah pointed to the 2007 Sierra Leone general election as an example of the electorate exercising its sovereign power, adding that future transitions would similarly be shaped by the will of the people.
Beyond constitutional interpretation, Bah called for responsible political engagement, urging leaders across the spectrum to avoid rhetoric that could heighten tensions or undermine national unity. He emphasized the importance of preserving social cohesion, particularly as the country looks ahead to future electoral cycles.
Reaffirming his broader political vision, Bah highlighted his commitment to the “One Salone Agenda,” which promotes national unity and inclusive civic participation as key drivers of development.
His comments contribute to the broader national conversation on democratic governance, reinforcing the principle that Sierra Leone’s leadership transitions must remain firmly grounded in constitutional order and the expressed will of its citizens.
