Political Parties, NEC Validate Revised MoU

Political Parties, NEC Validate Revised MoU

Forty-six leaders from registered political parties convened in Monrovia for a two-day consultative forum hosted by the National Elections Commission (NEC) to review and validate the revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Commission and political parties.

The updated MoU, according to a release, aims to bolster cooperation between the NEC and the Inter-Party Consultative Committee (IPCC), a vital platform for dialogue and electoral collaboration.

It also seeks to promote consensus-building, deepen political engagement, and nurture a culture of peaceful democratic participation.

A key aspect of the revised agreement includes, strengthened mechanisms for inter-party dialogue, dispute resolution, and conflict mediation.

Notably, it incorporates enhanced provisions to promote gender equality and broaden the inclusion of youth and persons with disabilities in political party structures and processes.

These revisions are informed by contributions from a previous IPCC meeting held in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.

NEC Chairperson, Madam Davidetta Browne Lansanah, who opened the forum said, the MoU’s role is to mainly foster mutual respect and accountability.

“This event marks a new chapter in our collective commitment to deepening democracy. The Commission hopes that the validation and subsequent signing of this MoU will elevate our democratic gains for the benefit of the voters, and the future of our nation,” said Madam Lasanah.

NEC Commissioner for Political Affairs, Boakai Dukuly, urged party leaders to approach the review with integrity and foresight.

“Political parties are indispensable actors in our democracy. This MoU, once finalized, will serve as a guiding document that all parties will be expected to honor. I urge you to thoroughly review it, and contribute meaningfully,” said Dukuly.

Commissioner Barsee Leo Kpangbai, echoed the importance of the MoU in ensuring credible and peaceful elections.

“This revised MoU is a milestone in our democratic journey. It reflects a collective aspiration for inclusive participation and peaceful coexistence among political actors,” Kpangbai noted.

Madam Florence Kaydee, Chairperson of the Liberia Restoration Party (LRP), who represented all political parties, encouraged her peers to fully engage the process peacefully.

“We are here to make critical decisions, not just for our parties, but for the people of this country and the future generations. Let us engage meaningfully and in good faith,” Madame Kaydee said.

On behalf of UNDP and its development partners, Roosevelt Zayzay of the Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP), reaffirmed support for democratic progress in the country.

Zayzay said, UNDP and its partners, remain committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the country’s elections are inclusive, transparent, and credible.

“This MoU is a crucial step toward achieving that goal,” he affirmed.

The forum was convened by the NEC, while UNDP-LESP provided the technical assistance. It was also supported by the European Union, Irish Aid, and the Embassy of Sweden.

The initiative supports national institutions and promotes inclusive, peaceful, and transparent electoral processes.

LESP is coordinated by UNDP and implemented in partnership with UN Women and the Netherlands Institute for Multi-Party Democracy (NIMD).