Tripartite Committee Proposes Six-Month Resignation Rule for Public Officers Running for Office
Tripartite Report Suggests Six-Month
Resignation Deadline for Public Officers Seeking Elected Office
The Tripartite Committee has proposed a notable
change to Section 76(1)(b) of Sierra Leone’s Constitution, recommending a
six-month resignation deadline for public officers intending to run for elected
office. This suggestion aims to amend the current 12-month resignation
requirement, which the Committee argues is overly burdensome for prospective
candidates.
In addition to this proposed amendment, the Committee calls for a clearer definition of “Public Officer” under Section 171 of the Constitution.
They believe this clarification will help distinguish between
high-level public officials, such as senior Ministry positions, and essential
service providers, including teachers and nurses.
Moreover, the Committee has addressed the issue
of dual citizenship disqualifications for elected office. While they propose
that presidential candidates must retain exclusive Sierra Leonean citizenship,
they recommend allowing dual citizens to contest for parliamentary seats.
These recommendations are designed to simplify the electoral process, promote inclusivity, and provide clearer legal guidelines regarding candidacy qualifications in Sierra Leone.
By reducing the
resignation period and addressing dual citizenship concerns, the Committee aims
to make it easier for qualified individuals to participate in the electoral
process and serve in public office.