Simeon Freeman, political leader of the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC), has reignited national debate over political accountability by calling for a reduction in the term lengths of Liberia’s elected officials from six to four years.
Delivering the keynote address over the weekend at Faith University’s commencement ceremony, Freeman argued that a shorter tenure would force public officials to work harder, deliver faster results, and reduce opportunities for corruption.
“When officials know they have only four years, they won’t waste time,” Freeman told the graduating class. “They’ll be under pressure to deliver real results or risk losing office.”
Under Liberia’s current Constitution, the President, Senators, and Representatives each serve six-year terms, a duration Freeman says is counterproductive to progress and accountability. According to him, extended tenures often breed complacency, mismanagement, and a lack of urgency in addressing national issues.
“Six years gives them too much time to do the wrong things before voters can act,” he continued. “Four years allows for quicker correction if mistakes are made.”
Freeman suggested a national referendum as the proper channel for amending the Constitution and allowing the Liberian people to decide on the matter. He also pointed out that many countries within the West African region already operate under four-year political terms, and urged Liberia to follow suit.
“Why should Liberia be different? We must align with regional best practices and prioritize the people’s welfare,” Freeman emphasized.
The MPC leader’s remarks come at a time of heightened public frustration with government performance and increasing calls for political and constitutional reform. Civil society groups and ordinary citizens alike have been pushing for stronger checks on public officials, as well as more transparent and efficient governance.
Some political observers see Freeman’s proposal as a timely contribution to national discourse, with potential to galvanize reform-minded stakeholders across party lines.
If adopted, the reduction in tenure would mean more frequent elections, giving citizens the chance to hold leaders accountable at shorter intervals and potentially accelerating the pace of national development.
As conversations around electoral reform continue to gain momentum, Freeman’s four-year proposal is likely to remain a focal point in both political and civic discussions leading up to the next election cycle.
