CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT: EXECUTIVE, LEGISLATIVE ACCOUNTABILITY TOPS BELGORE'S REPORT

Accountability for officials of the Executive and Legislative arms of government, robust fundamental rights for citizens, speedy justice dispensation and a vibrant local government administration are top on the list of recommendations contained in the report of the Presidential Committee on constitutional amendment.

The Presidential Committee on the Review of Outstanding Issues from Recent Constitutional Conferences inaugurated by President Goodluck Jonathan on November 17, 2011 submitted its report to the President at the Presidential Villa, yesterday.

Visibly satisfied with the report, the President assured that the report would be considered expeditiously.

'The Committee's mandate included the preparation of a legislative bill that would be sent to the National Assembly for debate and consideration in the proposed Constitutional Review exercise. In submitting its Report today, the Committee has fulfilled this charge', he said.

Jonathan who gave the hint after receiving the report by the Justice Alfa Belgore led committee, said it was critical for government to have a process which admits conflicting persuasions.

He maintained that government, as a core duty, must also focus and mediate the different perspectives to the nation's shared vision and forge national consensus and cohesion.

He said, 'I am informed that the Committee reached unanimous agreements on changes in key areas of the Constitution and that the recommendations that you are submitting today include provisions to strengthen Fundamental Rights as well as legal protection for all citizens, especially children, women and the physically challenged. I also understand that you have worked hard to develop provisions for speedy and fairer administration of justice'.