On October 2, 2026, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, a prominent figure in the All People's Congress (APC), raised concerns over the Sierra Leone government's recent establishment of two new districts, Bandajuma and Kpanguima, and eight new councils. Kamara questioned the legal basis, consultation process, and potential political and economic implications of the move. He argued that the process has been affected by legal ambiguity, political considerations, and potential social and practical consequences.
Kamara's concerns center on the basis for creating the new districts. He argued that the decision was premature because it was not informed by credible and validated population data from a new census. In contrast, the creation of Falaba and Karene Districts in 2017 was based on the 2015 Population and Housing Census, which recorded 205,353 people in Falaba District and 285,546 in Karene District. Kamara's statement highlighted the need for evidence-based decision-making in administrative restructuring.
The APC has also criticized the administrative restructuring, accusing the government of pursuing the process without sufficient transparency, data, and community engagement. Kamara specifically criticized the inadequate public consultation, particularly regarding the division of Freetown. He argued that communities directly affected by the changes should have been meaningfully engaged before the decisions were taken.
Another major concern raised by Kamara is the potential political impact of the new administrative boundaries. He alleged that the creation of additional districts and the division of Freetown could result in more parliamentary and local government positions in areas perceived to be politically favorable to the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP). Kamara described the move as politically motivated and warned that redistricting should not be used to influence electoral outcomes.
Beyond electoral concerns, Kamara highlighted potential implications for communities and local governance, including disputes over land ownership, boundaries, and relations among neighboring paramount chiefs. He referenced comments by the Chief Minister, who has acknowledged tensions arising from recent de-amalgamation processes, particularly disputes involving land ownership, boundaries, and relations among neighboring paramount chiefs.
Kamara also questioned the financial implications of establishing multiple new councils, including the division of Freetown into two city administrations and the creation of three new rural councils. He argued that each new council would require its own administrative structure, leadership, and budget, potentially increasing public expenditure and creating additional coordination challenges at a time when the government faces existing financial obligations.
Ultimately, Kamara called for greater transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and meaningful consultation in implementing changes to Sierra Leone's administrative structure. He argued that decisions affecting the country's districts and councils should take into account demographic data, community interests, governance needs, and their wider economic and social consequences.
Key points
- The creation of new districts and councils in Sierra Leone has raised concerns over the legal basis, consultation process, and potential implications of the move.
- The process has been criticized for lacking transparency, data, and community engagement.
- The changes may have significant implications for communities, local governance, and the country's administrative stability.
