APC politician and political commentator Sylvia Olayinka Blyden has intensified her opposition to a proposed constitutional amendment concerning the presidential election threshold, warning that the provision before Parliament could have far-reaching consequences for Sierra Leone’s democracy.
Blyden claims the provision to be voted on does not establish a 50%+1 threshold, but instead allows a presidential candidate to win with a simple majority while also meeting a requirement to secure at least 20% of votes in two-thirds of the country’s districts.
In a strongly worded statement, she described the proposed provision as a “very dangerous situation” and accused public figures Keketoma Sandi and Cee Bah of creating confusion by repeatedly referencing statements from the Attorney General regarding a 50%+1 threshold.
According to Blyden, such discussions could distract citizens from what she believes is the actual wording of the provision before Parliament.
She argued that if the clause becomes law, it could give the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) a significant and potentially long-term advantage in future presidential elections.
“If this clause becomes Law, SLPP will never again leave the Presidency,” Blyden claimed, warning that the party could continue winning presidential elections and become less accountable to voters.
She further warned that prolonged political dominance could weaken democratic competition and create conditions that could lead to authoritarianism.
Blyden reiterated her position in a separate statement, saying the proposal President Julius Maada Bio wants lawmakers to approve is not a 50%+1 system but a “very dangerous” simple-majority provision combined with the 20% district requirement.
“Let me STRONGLY repeat that what H.E. President Bio wants to be voted ‘YES’ for this morning is NOT ‘50%+1’ but a very dangerous ‘Simple Majority’ language — plus 20% votes in two thirds of Districts,” she stated.
She warned that if the provision is approved, it could permanently alter the country’s political landscape.
“If that happens, it is Game Over for our Democracy! No other party can ever get a chance to win the Presidency in Sierra Leone again! SLPP will never leave State House again,” she alleged.
Blyden also called on APC Members of Parliament to reject what she described as the “danger clause,” urging them to vote according to what she considers the interests of the country and its democratic system.
Her comments come amid intense political debate over the proposed constitutional amendments, particularly the presidential election threshold, as Parliament prepares to vote on the contentious provisions.
