Politics & Government Guide
Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions in Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone operates as a presidential republic under President Julius Maada Bio of the SLPP, who has led since 2018 amid ongoing challenges like corruption and economic difficulties. The unicameral Parliament reflects a bipolar party system dominated by SLPP and APC, with recent initiatives targeting governance reforms and development through 2030. Political stability remains fragile, highlighted by events such as the 2024 removal of the Auditor General.
Political Stability
Poor
Corruption Index
Below Average
Democracy Index
Moderate
Government Type
Presidential republic
Legal System
Mixed legal system of English common law and customary law
Head of State
President Julius Maada Bio(since 2018)
Head of Government
President Julius Maada Bio(Sierra Leone People's Party)since 2018
Political Indicators
Political Stability
Scale: -2.5 to 2.5
Weak
World Bank (2024)
Corruption Index
Scale: 0-100
Transparency International (2024)
Press Freedom
Scale: 0-100
Reporters Without Borders (2024)
Democracy Index
Scale: 0-10
Hybrid regime
Economist Intelligence Unit (2024)
Legislature
Major Political Parties
Centre-left
Centre-right
Voting Rights
Citizens aged 18 and above have the right to vote in presidential and parliamentary elections
Recent Developments
- Sierra Leone's fifth Open Government Partnership action plan 2024-2028 launched, focusing on anti-corruption, open parliament, and extractives transparency
- Medium Term National Development Plan 2024-2030 introduced, emphasizing food security, employment, and human capital investment
- Parliament voted to remove suspended Auditor General Lara Taylor-Pearce in December 2024 amid controversy over independence
- Government accepted constitutional review recommendations including separation of Attorney General and Minister of Justice offices
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