Liberia Opens National Policy Dialogue on 1986 Constitution Review

By Lewis S. Teh

Monrovia, June 11, 2026 – The Government of Liberia, through the Governance Commission and the Law Reform Commission, has inaugurated a two-day national policy dialogue in Monrovia to review the 1986 Constitution.

Acting Governance Commission Chairman, Professor Alaric K. Tokpa, emphasized the importance of approaching constitutional reform with the responsibility befitting custodians of Liberia’s democratic future.

Convened at Monrovia City Hall under the theme “Review of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia: Imperatives, Challenges and Prospects,” the dialogue brings together government officials, legislators, members of the judiciary, legal scholars, civil society representatives, traditional leaders, women, youth, and development partners.

A living document for a changing Liberia:

Professor Tokpa welcomed participants “with profound honor, humility, and a deep sense of national responsibility,” noting that the dialogue is being held at a pivotal moment under the leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. and Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung.

A representative of the Vice President delivered the keynote address, and House Speaker Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon was also present.

He reminded attendees that constitutions are not immutable, stating: “Constitutions are living instruments that must adapt to evolving social realities, political developments, economic transformations, cultural dynamics, and democratic expectations.”

He noted that the 1986 Constitution was promulgated following military rule and provided a foundation for democratic governance, fundamental rights, the separation of powers, and the rule of law.

However, since its adoption, Liberia has experienced civil conflict, post-conflict reconstruction, reconciliation, expanded democratic participation, and decentralization reforms.

These developments have raised critical questions regarding representation, accountability, inclusion, local governance, access to justice, and institutional effectiveness.

“Today’s dialogue builds upon this important tradition and foundation,” he stated. “Constitutional reform is not merely a legal exercise; it is fundamentally a democratic process rooted in broad-based participation and national ownership.”

Former President of the Liberia Bar Association, Counselor Bornor M. Varmah, speaking on behalf of the Law Reform Commission, described the occasion as “both a solemn opportunity and a privilege” to welcome participants dedicated to strengthening constitutional democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.

Why review the Constitution now?

Counselor Varmah stated that the Constitution is Liberia’s supreme law, embodying the aspirations of its citizens, establishing government structures, and guaranteeing fundamental rights. As society evolves, he emphasized, it is imperative to periodically review the Constitution to ensure it continues to meet the needs of the people.

He observed, “Over the past four decades, Liberia has accumulated substantial constitutional experience.” The country has witnessed democratic transitions, constitutional debates, governance reforms, decentralization, and increased demands for accountability, transparency, inclusion, and citizen participation.

Such developments, he noted, necessitate reflection on whether certain constitutional provisions remain fit for purpose.

He emphasized that the need for review “arises not from dissatisfaction with constitutional governance, but from the recognition that the Constitution must be responsive to evolving realities.”

The two-day Constitution Review Policy Dialogue was attended by numerous government officials from various ministries, agencies, and commissions, members of the diplomatic corps, development partners, civil society organizations, youth, and student groups, among others.