Debate over Dual Nationality in Government Roles Intensifies

Proposed changes to the constitution are stirring debate as lawmakers push for amendments that would prevent individuals with dual nationality from holding key positions in the government and judiciary. The draft bills, known as the Civil Servants (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Constitutional (Amendment) Bill, 2024, target the appointment of civil servants and judges with foreign nationalities, citing concerns about accountability and loyalty.

The Civil Servants (Amendment) Bill, 2024, focuses on Section 5 of the Civil Servants Act, 1973, proposing that individuals with dual citizenship should be ineligible for government roles. The rationale behind these changes is to align with Article 5 of the Constitution, emphasizing the importance of loyalty among government officials.

Similarly, the Constitutional (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to amend Articles 177, 193, and 208 of the Constitution to restrict the appointment of judges with dual nationality to the higher judiciary. The bill explicitly prohibits the appointment of dual nationals as Supreme Court or High Court judges, as well as judiciary officers and servants.

Advocates of these amendments argue that such measures are essential to protect the country's interests and ensure the loyalty of government officials and judges. By closing legal avenues for individuals with dual nationality to hold significant roles, the proposed changes seek to uphold principles of national allegiance and accountability.

The proposed constitutional amendments regarding dual nationality in government and judiciary roles highlight the ongoing efforts to enhance accountability and loyalty among key decision-makers. These changes, if implemented, could have far-reaching implications for the composition of government and judiciary bodies, emphasizing the importance of allegiance to the nation in serving in these crucial positions.