The argument for a unicameral legislature in Liberia centers on the premise of enhanced efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The current bicameral system, comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives, is deemed unnecessarily expensive and arguably ineffective in truly representing the Liberian populace. Proponents of a unicameral system contend that the Senate alone possesses the capacity to fulfill the legislature’s oversight responsibilities, thereby rendering the House of Representatives redundant and a drain on national resources. This redundancy is financially significant, with over $128 million spent on the House’s upkeep in just three fiscal years. Redirecting these funds towards crucial sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, and education could significantly impact Liberia’s development trajectory.
The efficacy of the House of Representatives in representing the people is also questioned. The current electoral system often results in representatives winning with less than 25% of the vote due to the high number of candidates vying for each district. This scenario raises concerns about the legitimacy of representation, as the majority of voters within a district may not have supported the elected representative. Furthermore, the high turnover rate of Representatives between election cycles suggests a disconnect between their performance and the expectations of their constituents, potentially indicating a prioritization of personal interests over public service.
While some may argue that Senators are also occasionally elected with less than 25% of the vote, this concern can be addressed through constitutional amendments. Implementing a requirement for a 50% majority vote for senatorial candidates, potentially through a second-round runoff system similar to the presidential election process, would enhance the legitimacy and accountability of Senators to their constituents. This reform would strengthen the Senate’s representative capacity and mitigate concerns about minority representation within a unicameral system.
The feasibility of a unicameral legislature is further substantiated by the successful implementation of similar systems in neighboring West African countries like Ghana and Sierra Leone. These countries demonstrate that a single legislative body can effectively address the legislative needs of a nation. Liberia, with its limited financial resources, should adapt its governance structures to reflect its economic realities, rather than emulating the bicameral system of the resource-rich United States, which served as a model for Liberia’s Constitution. Maintaining a bicameral system in a financially constrained environment is likened to indulging in expensive preferences while lacking the necessary budgetary means.
Transitioning to a unicameral legislature requires a concerted effort from the Liberian citizenry. Civil society organizations, advocacy groups, and individual citizens are urged to initiate a petition for a referendum on this issue. A referendum would provide a platform for public discourse and empower Liberians to directly participate in shaping the future of their governance structure. This participatory approach to constitutional reform would ensure that the decision reflects the collective will of the people.
The role of civil society in educating the public about the potential benefits of a unicameral system is paramount. Through awareness campaigns, town hall meetings, and community engagements, these organizations can facilitate informed discussions about the implications of streamlining the legislature. Highlighting the potential for improved governance and increased resource allocation for development initiatives can garner public support for the transition. Ultimately, the future of Liberia’s governance rests on the collective action of its citizens, prioritizing the needs of the nation over maintaining a potentially costly and inefficient system. This call to action emphasizes the urgency of initiating this conversation and taking concrete steps to effect meaningful change for the benefit of all Liberians. The author’s extensive experience in research, evaluation, and policy analysis lends credibility to the argument and reinforces the need for a data-driven approach to governance reform.
