Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has called on national leaders to take decisive action in addressing governance challenges, as Liberia grapples with economic and political uncertainties. Speaking as keynote speaker at the 2nd Summit for Democracy and Political Accountability on March 5, 2025, at Bella Casa Hotel, Madam Sirleaf emphasized the urgent need for reforms in governance, security and economic development. The summit was organized by Naymote Partners for Democratic Development with support from the Embassy of Sweden, brought together government officials including civil society organizations, youth leaders and international representatives to explore strategies for strengthening democracy and accountability in Liberia. Sirleaf’s address underscored the shifting global political climate, pointing to rising geopolitical rivalries, economic instability, and threats to democratic governance. She referenced ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as conflicts in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the recent military takeovers in several ECOWAS nations. “How does Africa react? What does Africa do?” she asked. “The African Union’s recent summit signals that Africa must use these global shocks as catalysts for long-overdue structural reforms to achieve the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and sustainable development.” Turning to Liberia, Sirleaf warned of increasing economic hardship, citing a World Bank report that revealed the country’s GDP growth rate had fallen to 0.4% in 2024. She highlighted persistent challenges, including high unemployment, food insecurity, limited electricity access (28%), and low literacy rates (48%). “The reality of our situation should not frighten us,” she declared. “It should embolden us to act decisively to fight against waste, abuse, and corruption, rather than making excuses to sustain them.” She cautioned against potential political instability, warning that no international peacekeeping force like UNMIL would intervene should Liberia’s security be compromised. “This is not the time for our national security forces to be entangled in public disputes that erode public trust,” Sirleaf stressed. Addressing national leadership, the former president urged lawmakers to act in the interest of the nation rather than political parties. “A partisan Legislature may strengthen a political party, but true leadership will build a better country,” she noted. “History will remember those who stand for principle and integrity.” She also emphasized the importance of judicial independence and civic engagement, calling for reforms in public sector governance, judicial transparency, and economic policies to restore both national and international confidence in Liberia’s institutions. “Democracy flourishes when every voice is heard,” Sirleaf said. “We must institutionalize regular citizen consultations and participatory budgeting, ensuring grassroots engagement in national development.” Sirleaf praised the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) but warned against the misuse of county development funds.
“No more using public money to build schools and clinics where no one lives or to buy equipment that never reaches the roads,” she emphasized. “Legislators and superintendents must not double as contractors overseeing their own projects.” She concluded by calling on Liberians to embrace resilience and unity in shaping the country’s future. “We must forge ahead, standing on the shoulders of those who envisioned a just and democratic society,” she urged. “Let this summit not be just another dialogue but a moment that stirs the conscience of the nation toward action.” Naymote Reaffirms Commitment to Democracy Welcoming participants, Alphia Faith Kemokai, Director of Naymote Partners, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to strengthening Liberia’s democratic institutions. She acknowledged the presence of key international partners, including, Nona Deprez, Ambassador of the European Union to Liberia, Karl Backeus, Ambassador of Sweden to Liberia. Other include the Gerald Considine, Ambassador of Ireland to Liberia Aliou Mamadou Dia, Resident Representative of UNDP in Liberia Kemokai stressed that the summit serves as a critical platform to assess democracy’s state, identify weaknesses, and create inclusive governance frameworks. “This is a moment for reflection and decisive action,” she stated. “The painful memories of our 14-year civil war must remain in the past. It is our collective responsibility to ensure history does not repeat itself but fuels our commitment to a stable, accountable, and inclusive democracy.” She also emphasized the need for youth and women empowerment in governance, noting that while women hold high offices, they occupy only 12% of legislative seats. “The fight for democracy and accountability is one we must all take part in, regardless of gender or background,” Kemokai stressed. As Liberia navigates economic and political crossroads, the Summit for Democracy and Political Accountability highlighted the urgent need for governance reforms, national unity, and citizen engagement. However, the key question remains will these conversations translate into real action.
