Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-02-28 22:43:16
Despite two peaceful transitions of power following relatively free and fair elections, international partners believe that Liberia still needs to do more to maintain peace and prevent post-election violence. Dr. Nevers Mumba, former Vice President of Zambia, has recommended mechanisms to enhance electoral integrity in Liberia.
Dr. Mumba emphasized the importance of continuing to improve the electoral process, even though Liberia has conducted relatively free and fair elections. He made these recommendations during a two-day post-election review symposium organized by the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa-Liberia International Elections Observation Mission (EISA-LIEOM) for the 2023 presidential and legislative elections.
During the symposium, Dr. Mumba suggested electoral legal reforms, a change in Liberia’s election date, and increased civic and voter awareness. He acknowledged Liberia’s progress in conducting free and fair elections but emphasized the need for continuous improvement to strengthen the democratic process.
Dr. Mumba highlighted the importance of addressing weaknesses in the electoral process during peacetime to ensure a more effective and inclusive democracy. He encouraged active participation and engagement from stakeholders to shape recommendations for future actions and reforms.
The workshop, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), brought together international and local stakeholders, political parties, civil society organizations, and other key actors to reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of the 2023 elections. Participants discussed ways to enhance the democratic electoral processes in Liberia and promote sustainable peace.
Dr. Mumba praised Liberia for its commitment to democracy in a region where coups have been a concern. He recommended showcasing Liberia’s success story to inspire other countries and promote democratic values.
The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to share insights, observations, and recommendations for future elections. It stimulated interactive dialogue among diverse groups, including government representatives, civil society organizations, political parties, the media, women and youth groups, academia, and the international community.
The discussions focused on the lessons learned from the 2023 elections and ways to address challenges in future electoral processes. The goal was to create a collective vision for a stronger and more inclusive democracy in Liberia.
Overall, Dr. Mumba’s recommendations and the outcomes of the workshop underscore the importance of continuous improvement in electoral integrity to safeguard peace and promote democratic values in Liberia. The country’s commitment to democracy serves as a beacon of hope in a region where political instability remains a concern.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
