The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has called for a comprehensive and consultative approach to ongoing efforts to reform the Constitution, stressing the need for broad public participation and careful consideration of the interests of citizens.
The call comes amid renewed discussions around constitutional reforms, with stakeholders increasingly examining how proposed changes could strengthen democratic institutions, improve governance and address concerns raised by citizens.
IEA Wants Broad Stakeholder Participation
According to the IEA, constitutional reform should not be treated as a process limited to political actors or government institutions.
The institute emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for a wide range of stakeholders, including civil society organisations, legal experts, traditional leaders, political parties, professional groups and ordinary citizens, to contribute to the process.
It argued that meaningful consultation would help ensure that proposed amendments reflect the aspirations and concerns of the wider population.
Comprehensive Review Needed
The IEA also stressed that constitutional reforms should be approached comprehensively rather than through isolated changes.
Such an approach, it suggested, would allow policymakers and stakeholders to examine the broader implications of proposed amendments and consider how different provisions of the Constitution interact with one another.
The institute’s position highlights the importance of transparency, public education and sustained dialogue throughout the reform process.
Citizens’ Participation Seen as Crucial
Beyond political and institutional discussions, the IEA’s call places citizens at the centre of the constitutional reform debate.
A transparent and inclusive process could help citizens better understand proposed changes while giving them an opportunity to express their views before decisions are finalised.
The institute’s position underscores a broader principle: constitutional reforms are more likely to command public confidence when they emerge from extensive consultation, open debate and a clear understanding of the country’s long-term democratic needs.
As discussions continue, attention is expected to remain on how authorities and stakeholders can balance the need for reform with the demand for an inclusive process that gives citizens a meaningful voice.
