By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, June 26, 2025 — A controversial government proposal to divide Freetown into two administrative districts met fierce resistance during a heated town hall meeting hosted by the Freetown City Council on Thursday. The gathering, held at the Council Auditorium on Wallace-Johnson Street, drew over 600 attendees—including lawyers, civil society leaders, youth activists, and traditional authorities—who overwhelmingly denounced the proposed city split.
Initially introduced in early 2024 but formalized this year, the plan seeks to create two new districts: Western Urban North and Western Urban South. Government officials have framed the move as a step toward decentralization and better service delivery. But critics argue it lacks transparency, public buy-in, and careful planning.
A Mayor’s Call for Unity
Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr delivered a pointed and impassioned critique of the proposal, calling it “undemocratic,” “poorly timed,” and “potentially destabilizing.” Citing World Bank estimates and council data, she highlighted that Freetown—though covering only 0.1% of the country’s land area—houses nearly 20% of Sierra Leone’s population.
“This process has lacked transparency and public engagement from the very beginning,” she said. “Dividing it without a proper plan or inclusive dialogue would only make things worse.”
She warned the plan could deepen socioeconomic inequalities and fragment essential governance systems. Revenue disparity was a central concern: 80% of Freetown’s internally generated revenue reportedly comes from the western region, while only 20% is generated in the east. Without a fiscal equalization mechanism, she cautioned, the eastern zone could face significant underfunding and neglect.
Legal and Civic Pushback
Legal scholar Sorie Sengeh Marrah questioned the legitimacy of the proposed restructuring. “Even if something is legally possible, it must still be democratically legitimate,” he argued, urging that public consent be secured before proceeding.
Dr. Femi Claudius Cole, Chairperson of the Unity Party, challenged the government’s priorities. “Is this the most urgent matter facing Freetown right now?” she asked. “Why are we diverting attention from pressing issues like poverty, unemployment, and housing?”
Youth leaders echoed these sentiments, describing the plan as a politically motivated redistricting effort rather than meaningful reform.
Resolution Passed: Citizens Demand Clarity
In response to the overwhelming opposition, participants passed a resolution calling for an immediate suspension of any legislative efforts to divide the city. They urged the release of a detailed government White Paper outlining:
– The rationale behind the proposal
– Legal and constitutional frameworks
– Fiscal and administrative implications
– A clear, inclusive roadmap for implementation
The resolution also called for broad-based public consultations across all 48 wards of Freetown before further action is taken.
Cultural Identity at the Core
Mayor Aki-Sawyerr invoked Freetown’s deep historical roots and cultural unity. “This is not just about lines on a map. We are trying to protect a people—resilient, diverse, and united,” she said, referencing the city’s founding in 1792 and a recent commemoration involving all of Sierra Leone’s ethnic groups.
As the city awaits the government’s next move, residents remain vigilant. Their message is clear: no division without consultation.