Zacharia Jalloh, Ministry of Information and Civic Education
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has provided key updates on the recently concluded National Dialogue on the Preferred Electoral System for Sierra Leone. The discussions, aligned with Recommendation 78 of the Tripartite Committee Report, centred on the debate between the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) and Proportional Representation (PR) electoral systems.
During the dialogue, political parties, including the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), alongside civil society organisations, presented position papers on the matter.
Minister Bah emphasised the government’s support for the Proportional Representation system, citing its potential to foster national cohesion, enhance inclusion, reduce costs, and prevent electoral violence.
“Many political parties and civil society organisations share this position,” Bah stated. “The PR system is seen as a pathway to strengthening national development and ensuring democratic stability in Sierra Leone.”
In a separate announcement, Minister Bah updated the public on the Bank of Sierra Leone’s directive requiring all citizens to register and link their bank accounts with their National Identification Number (NIN).
“New bank accounts must be linked to a NIN immediately upon opening, and existing account holders have until December 31, 2025, to complete the linkage process,” the directive reads.
Additionally, Bah revealed that starting October 1, 2025, the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA) will begin deactivating unregistered mobile phone numbers not linked to NINs. This initiative aims to enhance financial security, protect users, and facilitate seamless digital transactions.
To further streamline financial operations, commercial banks and mobile operators have been directed to enrol NIN-linked users into the National Payment Switch. This system will enable effortless transactions between bank accounts and mobile wallets, promoting a more digitally inclusive economy.
Minister Bah urged all citizens to act promptly and comply with these regulations to avoid disruptions in banking and telecommunications services.
