Recent political activity in Sierra Leone centers on President Julius Maada Bio’s administration, which is focusing on the ‘Feed Salone’ agenda through initiatives like new seed varieties and a national seed testing lab, as well as the official recognition of paramount chiefs. On the legislative front, parliament has passed a landmark bill banning child marriage, which was signed into law by the President in July. In the aftermath of the contentious 2023 elections, the political landscape remains influenced by ongoing tensions between the ruling SLPP and the opposition APC.
Executive and legislative actions
- Food sovereignty: President Bio is pushing the “Feed Salone” agenda, evidenced by the launch of 30 new seed varieties and the opening of a national seed testing laboratory in October 2025.
- Paramount chiefs: The President has been officially recognizing and inaugurating paramount chiefs, most recently in October 2025, emphasizing the importance of the chieftaincy institution.
- Anti-child marriage law: In July 2025, President Bio signed into law the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill, which criminalizes marriage for anyone under 18.
Political and social dynamics
- 2023 election aftermath: Tensions persist after the 2023 general election, which the main opposition party, the APC, rejected, alleging manipulation.
- Cross-party support: Despite political divides, a 2025 Afrobarometer poll found that large majorities of Sierra Leoneans support appointing people from different political parties, regions, and ethnic groups to key positions, though some data suggests a recent decline in tolerance.
- Peacekeeping efforts: International organizations continue to support Sierra Leone’s democracy by working on political conflict resolution and media monitoring to prevent inflammatory speech.
Ongoing challenges
- Human rights: Despite progress, some human rights concerns persist, including issues related to the justice system and discrimination.
- Cost of living: The high cost of living remains a significant concern for the population, as seen in past protests in 2023
