The Lawyers’ Society of Sierra Leone has raised concerns over government plans to divide Freetown and the Western Area into new administrative localities, warning that the move could strain finances and complicate governance.

In a letter to the Minister of Local Government, the Society opposed proposals to create two localities in Freetown and three in the Western Area Rural District, arguing that no financial or demographic evidence was presented to justify the restructuring. They cited the 2022 Local Government Act, which requires input from the Minister of Finance and the Electoral Commission before such changes are made.

The Society noted that existing councils are already struggling with delayed subventions and stressed that any restructuring should wait until after the 2026 household and demographic survey, which would provide updated data for the Electoral Commission to act upon.

While government officials claim more localities could improve service delivery, the Society countered that inefficiencies stem from incomplete devolution of powers and late funding, not council structures. They further cautioned that breaking up the Western Area now could overextend Sierra Leone’s limited governance capacity amid ongoing economic challenges.

The lawyers urged an evidence-based approach, prioritizing economic stability and stronger institutions over costly reforms. The Ministry of Local Government has yet to respond publicly.