As the constitutional amendment Bill proposed by Sierra Leone’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq continues in the Well of Parliament for debate, one of the All People’s Congress (APC) distinguished flagbearers Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Bangura has broken his silence on the constitutional debates taking place in various circles. Though he is on his hectic political activities across Sierra Leone by meeting the people including the grassroots, he is aufait with all political, economic and social developments in the country. Below is a statement the learned Professor has issued out to all Sierra Leoneans. His statement has been published verbatim.
I am closely monitoring the ongoing constitutional reform process in Sierra Leone. A national constitution should be drafted in good faith. It should serve the interests of every citizen. It should serve as a blueprint for solving societal problems and anticipating future challenges, especially given our country’s history. To ensure a stable future, this reform should be inclusive, devoid of political manoeuvres, and adopt a conflict resolution approach, focusing on the essential pillars of:
Genuine Democracy
How can we advance the true meaning of separation of powers and establish an executive that can be held accountable by other branches of government?
Accountable Governance
What mechanisms are necessary to protect the independence of public institutions, ensuring they stay responsive to citizens rather than being controlled by political interests?
Peace and Stability – How can we dismantle structures of ethno-regional dominance to promote an inclusive national identity, social cohesion, and equitable, sustainable development?
The current constitutional reform process should address these issues head-on. They are the keys to resolving the cycles of poverty, underdevelopment and corruption that have threatened the peace, security and stability of our country in recent years.
A Call for Party Unity on the Review Process
While I hold the firm view on the current process, I remain committed to the principle of party leadership on matters of national importance. As an aspirant for the Flagbearer of the All Peoples Congress (APC), I have consistently maintained that we should support the party in developing a unified and robust strategy. Our goal should to ensure that any reform truly reflects the democratic aspirations of the Sierra Leonean people, which the APC has delivered in recent times.
In support of this mission, I have decided to collaborate directly with the party by providing a comprehensive position paper that will contribute to the APC’s submission to the ongoing pre-legislative process.
I therefore call on my fellow aspirants, party members, the academic community, and the public to join the APC in fostering a more inclusive, transparent, and democratic dialogue for the future of our nation.
Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Bangura.
