MONROVIA, Liberia – Civil Service Agency (CSA) Director-General Dr. Josiah F. Joekai Jr. has called for urgent reforms to Liberia’s 1986 Constitution, arguing that several provisions no longer reflect the country’s current governance and development needs.
Speaking at a Public Policy Dialogue on Constitutional Reform held at Monrovia City Hall, Dr. Joekai presented a scholarly paper titled “Constitutional Reform in Liberia: An Assessment of the Gloria Scott Committee Report.” The event was organized by the Governance Commission in collaboration with the Law Reform Commission.
Dr. Joekai said constitutional modernization is critical to strengthening democratic accountability, improving public administration, promoting economic growth, and enhancing citizen participation. He noted that the Constitution was drafted before Liberia’s civil war, decentralization efforts, technological advancements, and modern governance challenges.
Among the key areas identified for reform are decentralization and local governance, presidential and legislative tenure, citizenship laws, judicial reforms, gender equality, disability inclusion, and anti-corruption measures.
He also highlighted concerns over provisions relating to citizenship restrictions, presidential appointment powers, lengthy political terms, legislative immunity, and the concentration of authority within the Executive Branch.To advance the process, Dr. Joekai proposed a national constitutional reform roadmap, broader public consultations, civic education campaigns, a national constitutional conference, and eventual constitutional amendments through a referendum.
He praised the Governance Commission and its partners for creating a platform for national dialogue and urged stakeholders to transform recommendations into concrete actions that will strengthen Liberia’s democracy and governance framework.
