Adoption of New Republican Constitution and Election of President Stevens in 1971

In April 1971, Sierra Leone adopted a new republican constitution, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape. Under this constitution, Siaka Stevens was appointed as president, solidifying his power within the All People's Congress (APC). The political climate during this period was fraught with tension, particularly during the 1972 by-elections, where the opposition Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) raised concerns about intimidation and procedural obstructions orchestrated by the APC and its affiliated militias. These issues escalated to the point where the SLPP decided to boycott the 1973 general election, leading to a landslide victory for the APC, which secured 84 out of 85 elected seats. This overwhelming dominance of the APC set the stage for further political changes, culminating in May 1978 when the Sierra Leone Parliament, heavily influenced by Stevens' administration, passed a new constitution that transformed the nation into a one-party state. This move was met with significant public support, as official figures indicated that 97 percent of Sierra Leoneans participated in the vote, reflecting a complex interplay of political power and public sentiment during this tumultuous era.