Sierra Leoneans with dual citizenship cannot be members of parliament – A response

Published: 5/Nov/2017
Source: Sierra Leone Telegraph

Adrian Fisher Esq

I have read with interest, a short article written by my learned friend and senior colleague at the Bar,  Francis Gabbidon Esq, entitled “Sierra Leoneans with dual citizenship cannot be members of parliament”. He premised his article on the basis that:

1. Sierra Leoneans who hold dual citizenship, are not allowed to contest in the forthcoming elections for membership of parliament, either as candidates for a political party, or as independent candidates; and, that

2. Naturalised citizens also cannot contest for membership of parliament.

My learned senior’s arguments in relation to the above are grounded on constitutional provisions to wit, Section 76(1) of the 1991 Constitution, Act No 6 of 1991 which provides:  76. (1) No person shall be qualified for election as a Member of Parliament –

a. if he is a naturalised citizen of Sierra Leone or is a citizen of a country other than Sierra Leone having become such a citizen voluntarily or is under a declaration of allegiance to such a country.

Read further: http://www.thesierraleonetelegraph.com/sierra-leoneans-with-dual-citizenship-cannot-be-members-of-parliament-a-response/

Themes: Double Nationalité, Nationalité des politiciens
Regions: Sierra Leone
Year: 2017