Constitutional Reform – 2001

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Constitutional Reform – 2001

2001

Minimum Implementation Minimal implementation

The Inclusive National Dialogue (dialogue nationale sans exclusive) was held between March 17 and April 14. At the end of the dialogue, some 1,600 delegates representing many different positions along the political spectrum attended the second phase of the national dialogue, which led to the endorsement of the draft constitution. The draft constitution was signed by President Denis Sassou-Nguesso, opposition leaders, former rebels, and representatives of civil society. The draft constitution had noted the need to turn in weapons, reorganize the armed forces, reform the judiciary and ensure freedom of the press along with provisions for an elected president and a two-chamber parliament. The draft constitution was presented in a national referendum for approval with elections expected in 2002.1 Nevertheless, former prime minister Bernard Kolelas and former president Pascal Lissouba were excluded from participating in the national dialogue as both were in exile and convicted in absentia for the crimes they committed during the 1997 civil war.2 The national dialogue was heavily dominated by the government with around 75% of the delegates sympathizing with the government.3

After the finalization of the draft constitution through the national dialogue in April, the interim parliament approved the new constitution, adding a series of amendments.4 The national referendum on a draft constitution was scheduled for 20 January 2002, and the presidential, legislative and municipal elections were scheduled for the first half of 2002.5

  1. “Delegates at Republic of Congo talks sign peace convention,” Associated Press, April 14, 2001.
  2. Ibid.
  3. R. Anders Nilsson, “Dangerous Liaisons: Why Ex-Combatants Return to Violence. Cases from the Republic of Congo and Sierra Leone” (PhD diss., Department of Peace and Conflict Research, Uppsala University, 2008).
  4. “The Republic of Congo since the return of Sassou Nguesso,” Agence France Presse, March 7, 2002.
  5. “Republic of Congo announces dates for 2002 elections,” Associated Press, December 18, 2001.