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The Deputy Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, provided an update on the country’s ongoing constitutional review process during a press conference held by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education.
Sesay emphasized the significance of the constitution and the government’s commitment to transparency throughout the review process. He assured citizens that President Bio prioritizes upholding the law and ensuring a better future for all Sierra Leoneans.
“President Bio is committed to leaving a strong legal framework for the country,” Sesay stated. “This is why we’ve focused on informing and educating the public about the review process.”
Sesay clarified that President Bio aims to complete a review process initiated over two decades ago. This process began with the 1999 Lome Peace Agreement, which called for a constitution reflecting the needs and aspirations of the people.
“The agreement mandated a constitutional review committee to assess our current constitution and recommend revisions,” Sesay explained. “This committee was established by legislation following the signing of the peace agreement.”
He elaborated on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) established through the Lome Peace Agreement. The TRC’s recommendations, submitted in 2004, also emphasized the need for constitutional review.
Former President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah established the “Peter Tucker Constitutional Review Committee” in line with these commitments. However, the committee’s report wasn’t acted upon before President Ernest Bai Koroma took office.
“President Koroma opted for a fresh review process, leading to the establishment of the ‘Justice Cowan Constitutional Review Committee,'” Sesay said. “This committee, composed of representatives from civil society organizations and political parties, submitted its report in 2017.”
President Koroma issued a white paper on the committee’s findings in June 2017, accepting some recommendations.
“Following his election in 2018, President Bio pledged to complete this process,” Sesay noted. “He established a team to review the report, and a second government white paper was issued in March 2021.”
Essay detailed the extensive consultations undertaken by the Justice Cowan Committee, including nationwide public meetings, stakeholder engagements, and media outreach.
“The committee’s report is a product of these comprehensive consultations,” Sesay highlighted.
He concluded by mentioning some legal reforms already implemented based on previous review recommendations. These include abolishing the death penalty, ensuring free quality education, and empowering women through legislative measures.
