Monrovia, Liberia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., has been challenged by Naymote Partners for Democratic Development to quickly and thoroughly examine the country’s 1986 constitution. Such a review is necessary to maintain the uniform application of the rule of law, enhance governance, and defend democratic ideals, according to the organization’s Executive Director Eddie Jarwolo.
The existing constitution was adopted about forty years ago, Jarwolo emphasized that it no longer appropriately reflects Liberia’s changing political, social, and legal environment.
Naymote points out that the Rule of Law and Judicial Reforms are two crucial topics that need to be addressed throughout the constitutional review process. It demanded the creation of specialized courts, including anti-corruption and electoral courts, in order to guarantee accountability, justice, and equitable adjudication.
Regarding electoral changes, Naymote calls for a better electoral system to boost election legitimacy, transparency, and public trust.
The organization advocates for the implementation of legislation that promotes gender equality in leadership and governance. Since allowing women the right to vote in 1946, Liberia has been at the forefront of women’s political freedom.
It will need additional reforms to ensure full participation. They requested that the election of local government representatives be made easier in order to solve fundamental governance problems and encourage decentralization and grassroots involvement.
In addition, Naymote asked for a clarification of government roles and duties as well as a reassessment of nationality, civic identity, and dual citizenship regulations to reflect modern circumstances.
Maintaining balanced governance and avoiding overreach requires a clear division of responsibilities between the legislative, executive, and judicial institutions.
Naymote calls on President Boakai to spearhead an open, citizen-led reform initiative that strengthens Liberia’s democratic foundations and rebuilds popular confidence in the government. To guarantee an inclusive and transparent reform process, they advise starting a wide-ranging national conversation, forming a Constitutional Review Commission, and including civil society, legal professionals, and grassroots groups.
Liberia is at a turning point in its history, and this project offers a crucial chance to update the country’s political systems to better reflect both the goals of its citizens and global best practices.
The 1847 Independence-era Constitution was superseded by the 1986 Constitution, which was enacted during a time of military control. The agreement has not undergone substantial revisions to reflect the nation’s evolving reality, despite its goal of establishing a more democratic framework.
Previous initiatives at constitutional review, including the one started in 2012, were hampered by issues like logistical difficulties and political distrust. Again in 2022, former president George Weah attempted to review the constitution especially the issue with dual citizenship but was meet with political distrust.
