Ordinary Liberians’ Marching Order to STAND -‘Be Our Mouthpiece, Fight for Us,’ They Say In Petition

MONROVIA – Since the days of old, when the struggle for equality and freedom was birthed on the shores of this oldest African republic, there has not been shortage of ‘progressives’, freedom fighters and advocates who commonly used the name of the impoverished majority of Liberians they fondly called “the masses of our people” as pretext, beneficiaries and raison d’être of all the struggles. Whether it was the days of Dihwo Twe, Edwin Barclay and Nete Sie Brownell, or the days of Togba-Nah Tipoteh, H. Boimah Fahnbulleh and G. Baccus Matthews, or the era of satelite warring factions in the 1990s and early 2000s, there is no history that points to these self-appointed “freedom fighters” as formally acquiring the people’s mandate. But here comes the new advocacy sensation on the block – STAND – drawing its mandate unusually formally from the ordinary people of the country. Last Friday, October 25, 2024, the history was set when a cross-section of ordinary Liberians or “the masses of the people” petitioned  the Chairman and leaders of the Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND) to be their “voice and advocate” leading a robust crusade against the intractable nemeses facing the country. The Analyst reports.

October 24, 2024 will be recorded a special date heralding a new dawn in the progressive history of Liberia, for being the moment the “masses of the people” formally petititoned a civil society organization to be their voice and advocate in the fight against corruption, abuse of power and other vices that have long plagued Liberia and its people from time immemorial.

Present to deliver the petition to one of the newest and clearly powerful civil soceity organizations in the country called, the Solidarity & Trust for a New Day or STAND, were the physically challenged, students, market women, civil servants, teachers, housemaids, farmers, motorbike riders, police officers, soldiers, miners, keke riders, health workers, construction workers, and war affected youths amongst others.

Before that day, ordinary Liberians had not been without self-proclaimed advocates as the country witnessed the rise and fall of various groups tying their struggles around the name and cause of the common people in the country. But in delivering their petition last weekend, the signees lamented their shared hardship suffered daily, a collective suffering which they said had persisted for generations, and that they “cannot stand by as Liberia’s leaders continue to fail us”.

The petition to STAND read: “We, the undersigned ordinary citizens of Liberia, united by the struggles we face daily, submit this petition calling upon Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND) to be our voice and advocate. We trust in your commitment to Liberia’s future and call on you to champion the urgent national priorities that we believe are necessary to transform Liberia’s governance, economy, and society.”

They ordinary citizens recalled that their country, Liberia, has been devastated by years of conflict and neglect. Over $100 to $150 billion in property was destroyed, and the country has yet to fully recover.

“Today, we remain trapped under the leadership of corrupt officials who prioritize their wealth over the welfare of the people. This moral bankruptcy threatens to turn Liberia into a failed state.”

They reflected: “In February of this year, we, the people, gathered at the Unification Park and endorsed the creation of STAND as a force for change. We appointed you, Mulbah K. Morlu, to serve as our People’s Chairman, and you have led with distinction. Today, as we come together again to inaugurate STAND’s national headquarters and launch the ADVOCACY MANIFESTO, we formally petition you as a vibrant civil society organization to adopt this manifesto as the PEOPLE’S ADVOCACY MANDATE for a better Liberia.”

According to them, they were confident that by embracing the priorities set out in their petition, the civil society organization STAND would become a vehicle for Liberia’s rebirth—a nation that is economically vibrant, politically accountable, culturally strong, and secure.

“Additionally, the adoption of these priorities will ensure the creation of wealth for our citizens, leading to a robust economy that is not only vibrant but also nurtures and prioritizes the productivity of our greatest asset: the people.”

The rest of the grassroots citizens’ petition further noted:

Our Key Advocacy Priorities

1. Make Corruption a Serious & Non-Bailable Offense if the Amount Exceeds a Certain Threshold

Corruption has stifled Liberia’s growth and development for far too long, perpetuating poverty and injustice. It undermines public trust in institutions and prevents vital resources from reaching those who need them most. We urge STAND to champion the enactment of robust legislation that categorizes corruption as a serious crime, ensuring it is treated with the gravity it deserves.

This proposed reform should establish that any individual accused of corruption involving an amount exceeding a defined threshold—let’s say from $10,000—will face non-bailable charges. By doing so, we can effectively deter corrupt practices and ensure that those who plunder public resources cannot evade accountability.

A non-bailable designation for serious corruption cases is crucial for several reasons:

1. Upholding the Rule of Law: This measure would reinforce the principle that no one is above the law, especially those in positions of power. It sends a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated and that violators will face serious consequences.
2. Preventing Flight and Tampering: Non-bailable offenses minimize the risk of accused individuals fleeing justice or colluding to destroy evidence. This will enhance the integrity of investigations and help ensure that cases can proceed unimpeded.
3. Protecting Public Interest: Corruption directly robs the public of resources that could be used for essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. By prioritizing the prosecution of these offenses, we put the interests of the people above personal gain.
4. Promoting Accountability: With stronger laws in place, public officials and corporate leaders will be held to a higher standard, fostering a culture of accountability that discourages corrupt behavior.
5. Enhancing Judicial Integrity: To protect against potential abuse of this power, it is vital to include safeguards that prevent malicious prosecutions. Judicial oversight and thorough investigative protocols will be essential to maintain the balance between fighting corruption and upholding individual rights.

Hence, making corruption a non-bailable offense for amounts exceeding a specific threshold will establish a firm stance against impunity in Liberia. STAND is urged to lead this vital charge for justice, promoting a future where transparency, accountability, and integrity become the cornerstones of governance.

2. Free Healthcare for Expectant Mothers and Innocent Children

Healthcare is a fundamental right. Therefore, we urge STAND to advocate for free healthcare services for all expectant mothers and innocent children up to age 18, with a phased expansion of these benefits to include civil servants and their families in future.

3. Free and Compulsory Education for Every Liberian Child

Education is the backbone of our nation’s hope and prosperity. Yet, too many Liberian children are denied this basic right, left to labor on the streets or in markets rather than building their minds in classrooms. We call on STAND to champion a future where every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to learn and thrive. We urge you to push for tuition-free, compulsory education from 1st to 12th grade in all public schools, ensuring no child is left behind due to poverty or neglect. Pursuing quality education for our youth must extend beyond public schools to encompass private institutions as well. Private schools should also be subject to tuition caps to facilitate affordable education and alleviate the financial burden on parents and guardians. The significance of these actions cannot be overemphasized as Liberia’s future rests on an educated, empowered generation—one that can lift families out of hardship, drive economic progress, and transform our nation.

4. Restoring Dignity to Our Women and Girls

Prostitution strips away the dignity, hopes, and dreams of our women and girls, reducing them to a life of hardship and despair. It’s not just a social issue; it’s a national tragedy that has fractured our communities, our families, and our collective soul. STAND must be the voice that demands action, advocating for laws that truly protect and uplift our beautiful, yet vulnerable sisters. We call on STAND to lead a movement that offers not just alternatives, but genuine opportunities for education, skill-building, and meaningful work that restores their dignity. Liberia’s women deserve more than survival—they deserve a future where they are respected, empowered, and free. Let us reject exploitation and build a Liberia where every woman and girl can live with pride and purpose.

5. Making Public Service Accountable: Reducing Tenures for Elected Officials

Liberia’s progress is often hindered by the long and unchecked terms of public officials, resulting in a government that too easily drifts away from the needs of the people. Lawmakers have become painfully unpopular with the public, and with good reason: prolonged tenures lead to neglect, complacency, and a lack of accountability. Our people deserve leaders who serve them actively, transparently, and earnestly—not officials who take their positions for granted.

In line with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations, we call for an urgent constitutional amendment through referendum to reduce the tenures of elected officials and adopt a RECALL provision for non-performance of elected officials. When enacted, this amendment will reduce the term of Representatives from six years to four and the term of Senators from nine years to six. Likewise, the presidential term will be shortened from six years to four, fostering closer connections between the President and the people, and ensuring that every day in office is dedicated to service rather than entitlement.

This reform would be a powerful move to restore public trust and revive the core values of public service. It would remind those in power that they are not above the people but chosen by them, answerable to them, and accountable for Liberia’s progress every step of the way. Let our lawmakers show their commitment to Liberia’s future by endorsing this national imperative—an act that will speak louder than words to all Liberians.

6. Protection of Civil Servants

Our civil servants are the backbone of governance and productivity, tirelessly working behind the scenes to ensure the smooth operation of our nation. Despite representing only about 2% of the economy, they play an indispensable role in our democracy and contribute significantly to our overall workforce. These dedicated individuals are often the unsung heroes of our society, shouldering immense responsibilities to serve the public good.

It is vital that we recognize their value and ensure they receive livable wages that reflect their hard work and commitment to the state. They deserve to lead lives of dignity, free from financial insecurity. Therefore, we urge STAND to prioritize the well-being of our civil servants and advocate for policies that uplift their standard of living. By investing in the welfare of these hardworking patriots, we invest in the very foundation of our democracy, fostering a more equitable and productive society for all.

7. Review of Concession Agreements for Equitable Resource Distribution

We urge STAND to spearhead a campaign to critically review and renegotiate Liberia’s concession agreements, which have historically favored foreign corporations at the expense of local communities. These agreements have allowed for the extraction of our nation’s wealth, resulting in economic hardship for the very people who should benefit from our abundant natural resources.

It is crucial to establish a framework that ensures equitable distribution of wealth generated from Liberia’s resources. This involves reassessing the terms of existing concessions and demanding transparency and accountability from foreign investors. Our rich natural resources, including timber, minerals, and agricultural products, must serve as catalysts for national development, fostering sustainable economic growth and improving the livelihoods of our citizens.

Renegotiating these agreements will ensure that a fair portion of the revenues generated from our resources is reinvested into local communities. This reinvestment can enhance infrastructure, healthcare, and education, ultimately lifting our citizens out of poverty and creating a more prosperous Liberia.

Furthermore, we must hold foreign corporations to ethical standards and community engagement practices, ensuring they contribute positively to the social and economic fabric of the regions in which they operate. This is not only an issue of economic justice but also a moral imperative to protect our people’s rights and dignity.

8. Prioritizing Community Development in Profit-Sharing

We call on STAND to champion a legislative amendment that increases profit-sharing between corporations and the government, prioritizing the development of communities within concession areas. Resources should primarily fund infrastructure, education, and healthcare in these impoverished regions, rather than cover the recurring expenses of Monrovia-based officials who receive high salaries, enjoy luxury travel, and substantial allowances, while ordinary civil servants face daily hardships.

9. End Child Labor in Street Trading

The plight of children forced into street trading is a heartbreaking reality that we can no longer ignore. No child should be deprived of their childhood, education, and potential due to economic hardship or exploitation. We urge STAND to take a resolute stand against this injustice by advocating for the criminalization of child labor.

The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated. Every child deserves the right to a safe and nurturing environment where they can learn and grow, free from the burdens of adult responsibilities. Street trading not only exposes children to physical danger but also robs them of the opportunity to receive an education, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and limiting their future prospects.

By criminalizing child labor, we can send a powerful message that Liberia values its children and their right to education over the exploitation of their labor.

We implore STAND to make ending child labor in street trading a national priority. Together, we can ensure that every Liberian child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and realize their dreams, free from exploitation. Let us act decisively to protect our most precious resource—our children—so they can thrive and help shape a brighter future for Liberia.

10. Job Creation and Sustainable Livelihoods

Unemployment and poverty plague our nation. We urge STAND to prioritize advocacy for job creation and sustainable livelihoods, particularly for the youth, through investment in skills development, entrepreneurship, and local industries.

11. Increased Agricultural Investment for Food Security

Agriculture is the backbone of Liberia’s economy. STAND is urged to advocate for greater investment in this sector, providing farmers with the tools and resources to increase productivity and reduce Liberia’s dependency on imported food.

12. Illicit Substance & Cross-Border Drug Trade

We urge STAND to intensify advocacy against drug and substance abuse, focusing particularly on identifying the root sources of drugs entering Liberia and the border points through which they flow. It is crucial to expose the high-level drug trafficking networks often orchestrated by influential figures. We must work to ensure that efforts to combat drug abuse are accelerated, and that those responsible for perpetuating this crisis are held accountable. This comprehensive approach will help protect our communities and safeguard the future of our youth.

13. Gender-Based Violence

In a nation where the rights of women and children are continually undermined, the promise of a brighter future remains dim. The pervasive issue of gender-based violence not only inflicts physical and emotional harm but also cripples our society’s potential for growth and harmony. We urge STAND to adopt a resolute stance against all forms of violence and discrimination, advocating for robust legal protections and comprehensive support systems for women and children. It is imperative that we create an environment where no woman or child suffers violations of their rights without consequence. By championing these vital causes, we can lay the groundwork for a more equitable society, ensuring that all individuals are empowered and protected, and that the next generation can thrive in safety and dignity.

14. Student Loans: A Pathway to Empowerment

In Liberia, many students come from underprivileged backgrounds, facing significant economic instability that hampers their ability to focus on their academic pursuits. This dire situation often leads to high dropout rates and the adoption of unhealthy alternatives, effectively sidelining young talent and depriving the nation of its future leaders.

Education should be a right, not a privilege, and it is imperative that we create an environment where all students can thrive without the burden of financial constraints. To this end, we urge STAND to advocate for the national government to establish a comprehensive student loan program. This program should provide accessible, low-interest loans that students can utilize to cover tuition and educational expenses, with the understanding that repayment will begin only after they secure employment after graduation.

15. Vacation Jobs: Unlocking Potential and Building Skills

In today’s fast-paced world, many of our students find themselves idle during their school vacations, often engaging in nonproductive activities that do little to prepare them for their future careers. This lost time is not only a missed opportunity for personal growth but also a potential setback for the development of our nation’s youth. However, we have the power to change this narrative by creating structured vacation job programs that offer meaningful work experience in specific career sectors.

By establishing vacation job opportunities, we can provide students with hands-on experience that aligns with their interests and aspirations. These programs should be designed to cover a variety of fields, including education, healthcare, technology, agriculture, and the arts, allowing students to explore different career paths while gaining valuable skills. This initiative will not only help students remain productive during their time off but will also empower them to make informed decisions about their future education and career choices.

Moreover, vacation jobs can foster a sense of responsibility and work ethic among young people. By engaging in real-world work, students will learn the importance of commitment, teamwork, and professionalism—skills that are crucial for success in any career. Additionally, these experiences can enhance their resumes and set them apart in a competitive job market upon graduation.

We urge STAND to advocate for the implementation of vacation job programs across the country. By collaborating with local businesses, government agencies, and educational institutions, we can create a network of opportunities that not only supports our youth but also strengthens our economy.

Conclusion

Mr Chairman and leaders of STAND, we submit these priorities to you as the voice of Liberia’s ordinary people. We trust in your leadership and in STAND’s capacity to fight for a better Liberia. By championing these causes, STAND as an advocacy civil rights organization can help build a nation that is just, prosperous, and equitable. The future of Liberia depends on the actions we take today.