In the midst of growing economic worries and contentious election results, Sierra Leoneans stand resolute in their commitment to democratic governance, according to a nationwide survey conducted by the Institute of Governance Reform (IGR).
Below are summary of the survey:
Economy and Overall Direction of the Country
A staggering 87% of Sierra Leoneans are deeply concerned about the state of their nation’s economy. Soaring prices of essential goods, currency depreciation, and a sudden 40% surge in fuel costs within a single month have severely impacted households. This economic distress is fueling pessimism about the country’s trajectory, with 72% believing it’s headed in the wrong direction. Notably, this level of concern now rivals that seen during the height of the Ebola pandemic in 2015.
Election Results
Recent presidential and general elections have left the nation in turmoil. The All People’s Congress (APC), the main opposition party, contests the results without providing evidence of fraud. Observer groups are divided in their assessments, with ECOWAS and the African Union approving the results while local and international observers raise concerns about transparency and statistical inconsistencies. This has led to calls for an independent investigation by the U.S. Embassy and other Western nations.
Demand for Democracy
Despite election-related disputes and regional democratic challenges, Sierra Leoneans overwhelmingly support democracy, with 88% preferring it as their system of governance. A resounding 91% advocate for regular, honest, and transparent elections to choose their leaders, highlighting the country’s steadfast commitment to democratic principles.
Opinions on Opposition Parties
Opinions on the role of opposition parties vary, with 69% of Sierra Leoneans believing they should accept defeat and collaborate with the government for the country’s development. In contrast, 26% think that the role of opposition parties should be to monitor and criticize the government, aligning with the responsibilities of the opposition in a functional democracy.
Survey Methodology
The survey was conducted from September 7 to 11, 2023, with 1,200 Sierra Leonean adults aged 18 and above. Random sampling proportional to district populations and a 3% margin of error at a 95% confidence interval were employed in data collection through face-to-face interviews.
