Support Social Change in Liberia for Economic Growth

            Liberians abroad need to support the effort to end more than 173-year-old institutionalized corruption and unacceptable practices in Liberia. The corrupt practices in Liberia started after independence in 1847. Liberia was presented as a democratic state on paper, but it was not for many years in practice. The nation was guided by a so-say-one, so-say-all approach, meaning a few people made decisions for the majority. One of the logical reasons for the practice was to allow the minority group, Americo-Liberians, to stay in power for an unforeseeable future. The method created several of the problems facing Liberia today:

• Educating the population was not a priority
• Building the nation’s infrastructure was ignored.
• Too much-appointing power was given to the president.
• The president appoints superintendents and judges, minimizing accountability to the people.
• Recently, the government manipulated the constitution, creating longer terms for elected officials.
• Tenure was granted, making it impossible to replace certain ineffective officials.

Note, not all Americo-Liberians were unscrupulous. For example, the late Vice-President James E. Greene wanted education for all. On several occasions in the 1970s, he used his official limousine to transport students to Pyne Town Elementary School in Sinoe County about five miles back home. He repeatedly told the students to stay in school regardless of challenges. There were several others like him.  

                The current administration did not create those problems but is responsible for rolling them back for efficiency, accountability, and development. The administration’s effort to change the terms of elected officials is commendable. This move is in the right direction, but there is a concern about dual citizenship. The administration needs to fully explain and educate the Liberian people about granting dual citizenship in the country. People need to understand its purpose and limitations.

Please visit liberianfuturedefender.com for analyses.

Please visit liberianfuturedefender.com for analyses.

published 12/20/2021