Party fractures will shape Sierra Leone reforms

Significance This forms part of an October 2023 Agreement for National Unity (ANU) between the government and opposition to address tensions following the controversial June 2023 general elections. The government’s agreement to dialogue on election reform was rewarded with the long-awaited approval of USD480mn of funding from the US Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). Impacts The treason case against former President Ernest Bai Koroma may be quietly dropped as part of a behind-the-scenes deal. The likely removal of Auditor General Lara Taylor Pearce could undermine transparent and accountable public financial management. Parliamentary approval for major port infrastructure investments may create jobs but risks damaging local ecosystems.