MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has challenged members of the Legislature to take decisive action in amending key provisions of the Liberian Constitution.
Madam Sirleaf wants reforms, particularly in Article 27(b), which addresses citizenship and naturalization.
She described the current provision as discriminatory and urged lawmakers to take proactive steps to change it head-on.
According to the former Liberian leader, the constitution restricts citizenship to persons of Negro descent by birth or naturalization, an approach she says is outdated in today’s global society.
Madam Sirleaf believes revising that portion of the constitution will make the Country more inclusive and encourage Liberians in the diaspora to return home and contribute to national development.
At the same time, former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has stressed the urgent need for stronger policies and legal measures to address Liberia’s growing land crisis.
Madam Sirleaf warned that in the absence of a well-regulated land policy, the situation could take a dangerous turn.
She noted that the increasing cases of illegal land grabs across the country should be a major cause for concern.
The former Liberian Leader said,” Despite the existence of land laws, more needs to be done to ensure peaceful co-existence among Liberians”.
Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is also calling on the Government of Liberia to use its authority under eminent domain to acquire large portions of unused land and develop them for the benefit of the country.
