Constitutional Review Report Recommends Independent Anti-Corruption Commission

The Constitutional Review Committee has proposed the establishment of an independent Anti-Corruption and Ethics Commission with full prosecutorial powers as part of far-reaching reforms to strengthen accountability and restore public confidence in governance.

According to the report, the proposed commission will be constitutionally entrenched and mandated to investigate, prevent and prosecute corruption-related offences without political interference.

“The Committee recommends the establishment of an independent Anti-Corruption and Ethics Commission with prosecutorial authority to effectively combat corruption and unethical conduct in public life,” the report stated.

The Committee explained that existing anti-corruption institutions lack the necessary independence and enforcement powers to deal decisively with corruption.

“The current framework fragments accountability and weakens enforcement, thereby undermining public trust in state institutions.”

In addition to anti-corruption reforms, the Committee has also proposed significant changes to the structure of the judiciary, including placing a cap on the number of Supreme Court justices.

Under the recommendation, the Supreme Court will be limited to a maximum of 15 justices to improve efficiency and consistency in judicial decisions.

“The Committee recommends that the membership of the Supreme Court be capped at fifteen justices to enhance effectiveness and preserve the integrity of the apex court.”

The review further proposes a single, non-renewable 10-year term for the Chief Justice, a move aimed at safeguarding judicial independence and preventing undue executive influence.

“A single non-renewable term of ten years for the Chief Justice will insulate the office from political pressure and promote judicial impartiality,” the report explained.

The Committee argued that these reforms would reinforce the separation of powers and ensure that accountability mechanisms operate without fear or favour.

“These proposals are intended to strengthen democratic governance, promote integrity in public office, and reinforce confidence in the justice delivery system.”