The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) has released a report that comprehensively reviews situations of unconstitutional changes of government and APRM’s Bi-annual Report on Governance Mechanisms for the Implementation of Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030 with special focus on Aspiration 3 and SDG16. The report was conducted in accordance with the decision made by the heads of state of the African Union at the 16th extraordinary summit.
In his opening statement, APRM Executive Secretary Mohamed Sheshu Sheriff emphasized the importance of understanding and practically using the recommendations within the review. He continued that the report offers a collective effort as recommendations from African peers who have experience and expertise in the matters reviewed, key among them:
Strengthening the rule of law and independent institutions
Promoting transparency and accountability in government
Combating corruption
Promoting citizen participation in governance
“The launch of this report is not only an occasion to celebrate our achievements, but it is also a way to chart forward our challenges,” he noted.
Prof. Eddy Maloka, Chief Executive Officer of APRM’s Continental Secretariat, encouraged the government of Sierra Leone to implement the recommendations of the Targeted Review Report on Unconstitutional Changes of Government in Sierra Leone. He thanked President Bio for the leadership he has continued to give to the APRM, adding that that was a great way of leading from the front.
Ambassador Princess Inonge Mbikusita-Lewanika, APRM’s Lead Panel member for Sierra Leone, said the country had consistently been ranked among the top-performing Member States with demonstrations of its ability to face challenges whilst building on its future to proffer the best to its citizens. She commended Sierra Leone for the shared vision of protection of rights, freedom and the constitutionality of laws, the control of constitutional amendments and institutions supporting constitutional democracy and accountability.
“Under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, Sierra Leone, the government and its people need to be commended. The targeted review is indicative of the renewed commitment to the impressive journey the APRM has had with the Republic of Sierra Leone,” she said.
Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, representing President Bio at the launch of the APRM Review Targeted Report, remarked that the report is a pivotal milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, preserve democracy, and ensure a prosperous future for Sierra Leone and the entire African continent. He continued that unconstitutional changes of government, including coups, election-related crises, and other undemocratic means, have long plagued the history of Sierra Leone and Africa as a whole, leading to political instability and human rights violations.
However, he noted that as a government, significant progress has been made in addressing these issues, and it is crucial to tackle the remaining challenges. He added that the focus now lies on implementing good governance practices, with a special emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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