By Atty Philip N. Wesseh (PNW)
One of the things I admire democracy is the issue of the involvement of the people in the governance of their country.
Etymologically, it is said that the word ”democracy” has its origins in the Greek language with two shorter words: ‘demos,’ which means “whole citizen living within a particular city-state” and ‘kratos’ meaning “power or rule.”
As the simple definition of democracy says that it is a government of the people by the people and for the people. In the definition are three prepositions-“of, by and for-“ which clearly shows some kind of relationship and connection. It is an antithesis to dictatorship, which can be likened to arbitrariness.
As it relates to representation, this is done through the elections of individuals to represent various sectors of the country. And that such individuals are found in the National Legislature who are elected by the people in various sectors to represent them in the system of governance. These individuals in the legislature have three cardinal functions- representation, oversight and lawmaking.
Unfortunately, in elementary schools, we were only told in Social Studies that those in the legislature have only one function, which was principally “lawmaking,” while the Executive Branch is for “law enforcement” and the Judiciary for ”law interpretation.” Little did we know that the Legislature has two other functions which are “representation and oversight,” something very crucial as it relates to the people they represent.
A View Of The House Of Representative
As we are rightly told in grade school in keeping with the Constitution, our system consists of three branches-Legislative, Executive and Judicial, which are separate, but must coordinate for the smooth running of the system..
This is contained in ARTICLE THREE of the Constitution, which states” Liberia is a unitary sovereign state divided into counties for administrative purpose. The form of government is Republican with three separate coordinate branches: the Legislative, the Executive and the Judiciary.
That constitutional provision states: “Consistent with the principles of separation of powers and checks and balances, no person holding office in one of these branches shall hold office in or exercise any of the powers assigned to either of the other two branches except as otherwise provided in this Constitution; and no person holding office in one of the said branches shall serve on any autonomous public agency.’
One of the reasons for this provision is to ensure that one branch does not unnecessarily exercise undue power or influence over others, thereby promoting the “checks and balances” in the governance system.
In other words, the checks and balances system is to ensure that one branch does not employ arbitrariness in the running of the government, which relates to the oversight function of the legislators.
For example, if the Executive Branch headed by the President prepares the national budget, it is submitted to the Legislature for scrutiny, during which time they would ensure that the concerns and needs of their people are also considered. Likewise, in case of certain appointments in the Executive Branch, although the President has the carte blanche to do so, such individuals would be presented to the Liberian Senate for confirmation hearing to either confirm or reject them.
This is in line with the objective or reason of checks and balances.
Today, I am raising the issue of representation because of what I am hearing as President George Weah continues his nationwide tour. From what I am hearing suggests that some of those elected to represent their people are not living to the task, as it appears that they are not bringing to light those issues affecting their people, especially as it relates to their welfare and wellbeing, so as to move them from backwaters to prosperity.
That is, as representatives of their people, they are duty-bound to ensure that the interest of their people are highlighted. Fortunately for them, they always have open session with the presence of the media which is under obligation to highlight such issues repeatedly and constantly.
It was through President Weah’s visit to River Gee that I got to know that the area has an area that is suitable for a mini dam.
Is it that the county leaders, including their legislators were not aware of such natural blessing that could be developed for their people?
Whatever the situation, thank God that this has been identified and that every efforts should be exerted for its realization, as it is often said, “light is life.” Whenever people speak of some of the basic needs of people or social services, electricity is considered because of its enormous benefits to people.
As I monitored reports about the ongoing tour, another thing to consider is the issue of the “working tools” for local leaders. This prompted the President to donate vehicles and motorbikes.
I am not against the President showing generosity or magnanimity, but these are some of the issues those representatives should vociferously be clamoring for unceasingly. As we say in Liberia, let them “make the loud noise” for solution.
Unarguably, those who represent their people should not only be concerned about their personal welfare or wellbeing, but that of their people. This is the essence of what is referred to as “PUBLC SERVICE,” which is about the general good of the people and not just the leaders.
To conclude, let the word go forth that those elected to represent their people in the National Legislature, are not only lawmakers as we were parochially told in grade school, but also individuals who should highlight the plights and needs of their people to improve their lives and standard of living; to move them from backwaters to prosperity.
Hence, it is because of the important role of that branch regarding the issue of “checks and balances, it is given “contempt power” to discourage anything that would prevent its smooth and unimpeded functions.
As it is said, “TO WHOM MUCH IS GIVEN MUCH IS EXPECTED,” therefore, issues concerning the people should be prioritized.
I Rest My Case.