Nurses Elect New Leadership -Team Vows Enhancing Nursing Quality, Education

MONROVIA – The saying that ‘there is no small election’ proved itself true when Liberian nurses braved the scorching sun, travelled long journeys from Monrovia and other parts of Liberia to Bong Mines, and despite delays in the registration process, they showed resilience and commitment—stood in long queues to cast their vote for the future leadership of their organization, the Liberia Nurses Association (LNA).

LNA elections was held Friday, at the first Baptist church, and it attracted a large gathering of nurses, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders dedicated to improving healthcare delivery in the country.

Madam Edith Catherlyne Raily Telewoyan of the Redemption team defeated incumbent president Benjamin O. Suame.

The convention, marked by vibrant discussions and passionate speeches, focused on the pressing challenges facing the nursing profession in Liberia.

Key issues such as inadequate resources, staffing shortages, and the need for more comprehensive training programs were brought to the forefront.

Those elected and won on the ticket of the “Redemption Team” along with president-elect Edith Catherlyn Railey included Masalon T. Kenneth, vice president of operation; Rannet Z.B Robbie, General Secretary; Philomena Flome, Financial Secretary; Mashaach Salaydinho Karmo, Jr., vice president of the nursing Board, and Martha kollie, Treasurer.

The newly elected leadership team has pledged to prioritize advocating for better conditions and policies that benefit both nursing professionals and the communities they serve.

During the convention, outgoing leadership headed by Benjamin O. Suamey reflected on their tenure and the progress achieved in advocating for nurses’ rights and enhancing healthcare standards across the nation.

The new leadership emphasized a commitment to transparency, accountability, and collaboration with government agencies and other healthcare organizations to drive systemic change within the healthcare system.

The Candidates for the Nurses election voted on two tickets: Redemption Team and Integrity Team.

The LNA’s President-elect, Madam Edith Catherlyne Raily Telewoya prior to the election and during the convention stated: “We stand at a crucial juncture in our profession. Our commitment to advocating for the rights of nurses and improving healthcare services in Liberia is unwavering. Together, we will work to ensure that the voices of nurses are heard, and that our contributions to healthcare are recognized.”

According to sources familiar with conditions of nurses, this leadership transition comes at a time when the healthcare sector is under increasing scrutiny, with citizens calling for reforms to address longstanding issues within the system.

The LNA’s new leadership recharged hopes in tackling challenges and ensuring that nurses are equipped to meet the healthcare needs of the Liberian population.

As the new leadership takes office, it is poised to lead initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of nursing education and practice in Liberia, fostering a stronger, more effective nursing workforce that can significantly contribute to the overall improvement of health of Liberia’s health sector.