In a recent address during a Town Hall organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on 27th August 2024, the deputy Leader of the opposition in Parliament, Hon Daniel Koroma, said there is an urgent need for inclusivity in the ongoing constitutional review process.

The APC politicians complained of being wished off in a constitutional review  process that the entirety of the public is also made aware of.

The event, designed to foster dialogue on the future of peace and national cohesion, drew  diverse crowd of participants who were eagerly discussing the critical issues facing the nation at the moment.

Hon Daniel Koroma pointed out that the current constitutional framework is riddled with outdated provisions that do no longer reflect the realities of modern governance systems and societal needs. In spite of citizens and politicians crying foul of lack of inclusivity in the constitutional review which was said to have been going few months ago by a government authority, CSOs have called for diverse views to be reflected in the discussions. They have also touted of a need to bring keep track of the emerging issues such as women empowment issues, gender, sexual harassment, terrorism and many more to be captured in the reviewed constitution to make it a modern one.

“Our constitution was crafted at a different era, and as we evolve as a nation, so too must input our guiding principles that fit with the times,” he stated. Hon Koroma added that we must address these outmoded elements to ensure that our legal foundation supports a progressive and fair society.

Hon Daniel Koroma expressed concern over the exclusion of opposition parties from meaningful participation in the review process, saying, “A constitution that does not represent the voices of all its citizens, including dissenting ones, stands to undermine the very tenets of democracy.” He underscored that a comprehensive review should be a collaborative effort, involving contributions from all political factions and civil society.

Hon Daniel Koroma’s remarks echoed the sentiments of many attendees, who called for a transparent and inclusive process to engage various stakeholders, including the marginalized communities.

“Peace and national cohesion are built on the foundations of trust and mutual respect,” Hon. Koroma explained. He stated that by ensuring everyone has a seat at the table, we are taking a critical step towards healing divisions and fostering a sense of belonging among all citizens.

Participants at the Town Hall expressed their support for Hon Daniel Koroma’s vision, encouraging the government to actively seek input from various groups. As discussions unfolded, ideas emerged about holding public forums and consultations across the country to gather a wider range of perspectives on constitutional amendments.

Hon Daniel Koroma concluded that as a government in waiting, the APC is not happy that they have not been involved in the ongoing constitutional review process.