By Forum staff writer
An aspirant for the flagbearer position of the All People’s Congress APC, Dr Ibrahim Bangura has called for a more inclusive and credible constitutional reform process, stressing that Sierra Leone’s national constitution must be drafted in good faith and serve the interests of all citizens.
In a statement issued on the ongoing constitutional review, the aspirant said he is closely monitoring developments and remains concerned about the direction and intent of the current process. He noted that a national constitution should not be shaped by narrow political interests but must act as a foundation for solving societal problems and preparing the country for future challenges, particularly in light of Sierra Leone’s history.
According to him, the reform process should be inclusive and free from political manoeuvres, while adopting a conflict resolution approach that prioritises national cohesion and long term stability. He identified three key pillars that must guide the review process if it is to deliver meaningful change.
On democracy, the aspirant questioned how the country can strengthen the true separation of powers and establish an executive arm of government that is effectively accountable to other branches. He argued that without genuine checks and balances, democratic governance remains weak and vulnerable to abuse.
He also emphasised the need for accountable governance, calling for stronger mechanisms to protect the independence of public institutions. He said such institutions must remain responsive to citizens and national interests rather than being influenced or controlled by political actors.
Addressing peace and stability, the aspirant raised concerns about entrenched ethno regional dominance, which he said continues to undermine national unity. He called for reforms that dismantle such structures and promote an inclusive national identity, social cohesion, and equitable and sustainable development across the country.
He warned that failure to address these fundamental issues could prolong the cycles of poverty, underdevelopment, and corruption that have threatened peace and stability in recent years. He added that constitutional reform presents a critical opportunity to confront these challenges directly and set the country on a more stable path.
Despite his firm views on the process, the aspirant reaffirmed his commitment to party leadership on matters of national importance. He said that as a flagbearer aspirant of the APC, he has consistently supported the need for a unified and strategic party position on the constitutional review.
He explained that the APC’s goal should be to ensure that any constitutional reform truly reflects the democratic aspirations of the Sierra Leonean people, which he said the party has demonstrated the capacity to deliver in recent times.
In support of this objective, he disclosed that he has decided to work directly with the party by submitting a comprehensive position paper to contribute to the APC’s input in the ongoing pre legislative process.
He concluded by calling on fellow aspirants, party members, academics, and the wider public to engage constructively with the APC in promoting an inclusive, transparent, and democratic dialogue aimed at securing a better future for Sierra Leone.
