PAYNESVILLE – The Executive Director of Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, Eddie D. Jarwolo, has issued a stark warning about the potential for civil unrest in Liberia if President Joseph Nyuma Boakai fails to initiate a comprehensive review of the 1986 Constitution.
Mr. Jarwolo made the statement during a major press conference on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the headquarters of Naymote Partners for Democratic Development in Paynesville, just outside the capital, Monrovia. He argued that the 1986 Constitution—drafted in a vastly different political era—no longer reflects the realities of modern-day Liberia.
The 1986 Constitution was adopted following a period of significant political upheaval. The original 1847 Constitution, which governed Liberia for more than a century, was effectively overthrown following the 1980 coup led by Master Sergeant Samuel K. Doe. That military takeover ended 133 years of Americo-Liberian dominance under President William R. Tolbert Jr. Doe’s regime suspended the Constitution and ruled by decree—a period marked by instability, corruption, and repression.
By 1983, growing public pressure led to the formation of a Constitutional Commission, tasked with drafting a new constitution that would reflect Liberia’s broader demographic, including the long-marginalized indigenous population. That document was ratified in a 1984 referendum and officially adopted on July 26, 1986—Independence Day.
Warning of Potential Conflict
“I think if we don’t work hard to have a new constitution that will be respected, that will be inclusive, that the opposition and everybody will respect—I see Liberia going into another trouble—war,” Mr. Jarwolo warned. “You usually hear some lawmakers threatening to go to the president’s house. What do you think they’re talking about?”
He expressed deep concern that certain senior officials, especially members of the Legislature, routinely issue threats that undermine national stability while hiding behind constitutional protections and ignoring the needs of ordinary Liberians.
Mr. Jarwolo argued that the current constitution, last amended nearly four decades ago, is outdated and inadequate to address Liberia’s evolving political, social, and legal challenges. He said major reforms are necessary to protect civil liberties, strengthen judicial independence, and prevent political manipulation.
“A structured and inclusive constitutional review is critical to ensuring political stability, expanding civic participation, and fortifying the rule of law,” he said. “We urge President Boakai to seize this historic opportunity to lead a transparent, citizen-driven reform process that strengthens Liberia’s democratic foundations and restores public trust in government.”
Legislative Impasse and Electoral Challenges
Mr. Jarwolo also referenced the current impasse in the House of Representatives, noting that public opinion is divided on whether the issue is political or constitutional. He stressed that the absence of clear constitutional remedies has contributed to the crisis.
“The constitution is weak. I think it is time now, in this modern age, that we all have a new constitution that people can use to win a case,” he noted. “You hear the women say they want 30 percent [representation]. You can have all the electoral laws, but they’re not enforceable because it is not constitutional.”
He maintained that the New Elections Law cannot guarantee 30 percent representation for women unless such provisions are enshrined in the constitution. He also highlighted disparities in the size of electoral districts, with some constituencies having as few as 10,000 residents, while others have 50,000 or more.
“We’ve got to make sure that what’s in the constitution is what the government follows,” he said. “When you violate it and are taken to court, whether you’re rich or poor, justice should be served.”
The Urgency of Constitutional Reform
Mr. Jarwolo emphasized that the most appropriate time for constitutional reform is between now and 2027. If delayed until 2028, he warned, it could be viewed as a political ploy unlikely to yield genuine change.
“President Boakai is in the best position—and everybody: civil society, the media, the opposition—should now call for a constitutional review,” he said. “In 1986, the military came in, and they didn’t know about accountability, access to justice, or the rule of law. Now, we are still using that constitution, and any government official can just wake up and increase their salary.”
Key Reform Areas Identified
Mr. Jarwolo highlighted several priority areas for constitutional reform, including:
Rule of Law and Judicial Reforms – Establishing specialized courts, including electoral and anti-corruption courts, to ensure justice and accountability.
Electoral Reforms – Enhancing electoral transparency and public trust.
Women’s Political Participation – Institutionalizing legal guarantees for gender equity in governance.
Local Governance – Enabling the direct election of local officials to promote decentralization.
Civic Identity and Nationality – Addressing dual citizenship, nationality laws, and inclusive identity policies.
Separation of Powers – Clarifying roles among the three branches of government to curb overreach and ensure balanced governance.
“Liberia stands at a critical juncture, and President Boakai’s leadership presents a pivotal opportunity to champion a modernized, citizen-centered constitution,” Mr. Jarwolo stated. “A deliberate and well-structured review process will not only align Liberia’s governance with international best practices but also rebuild public confidence in our democratic institutions.”
He called on the government to immediately initiate a national dialogue, establish a Constitutional Review Commission, and work with civil society, legal experts, and grassroots communities to ensure a transparent and inclusive process.
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