The All-Liberian Conference on Dual Citizenship (ALCOD) has engaged with Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, the Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC), to facilitate greater involvement of diaspora Liberians in the nation’s electoral processes. During discussions on September 27, 2024, the ALCOD delegation sought clarification regarding critical terms found in Article 80 ‘C’ of the Liberian Constitution, specifically “absentee ballot” and “constituency.” This article stipulates that every Liberian citizen holds the right to register and vote in elections either in person or via absentee ballot, yet it leaves ambiguity regarding whether these provisions apply to citizens residing outside Liberia or solely to those within its borders. The ALCOD delegation expressed the importance of having clear definitions surrounding these terms to ensure diaspora participation in future elections.
The NEC acknowledged the concerns raised by ALCOD regarding the implications of these definitions. Chairperson Browne-Lansanah highlighted that discussions about absentee ballots and voting constituencies necessitate careful consideration of the potential financial and infrastructural challenges associated with implementing an out-of-country voting system. This concern underscores the complexity of allowing diaspora Liberians a pathway to participate in national elections directly. The ALCOD delegation, under the leadership of co-chairman Mr. Kingston Wleh, showcased their willingness to mobilize support from both diaspora comprised of Liberians and international partners to advocate for out-of-country voting, should the NEC decide to proceed with the initiative.
In their pursuit of clarity, ALCOD’s legal team plans to formally communicate with the NEC to seek definitive interpretations concerning “absentee ballot” and “constituency” in Article 80 ‘C.’ It has been suggested that the Supreme Court, rather than the NEC, should be the authority to provide such clarifications. The legal team is prepared to approach the Supreme Court to obtain the necessary judgments that may define the voting rights of those in the diaspora. Given the historical context surrounding these legal terms, their interpretation is critical for establishing inclusive voting rights that encompass Liberians living abroad who seek to engage in their home country’s democratic processes.
Beyond merely addressing these urgent clarifications, ALCOD is proactively executing a parallel plan designed to facilitate legislative adjustments if it is determined that the terms in question are exclusively applicable to citizens residing within Liberia. This indicates a strategic approach to modifying existing laws or proposing new ones that enhance electoral access for diaspora Liberians should the current constitutional language prove restrictive. As ALCOD advances its advocacy, it remains focused not only on clarifying voting rights but also on ensuring that mechanisms are in place to enable meaningful participation in national elections from abroad, thereby strengthening regional and global ties for Liberians living outside the country.
The background of ALCOD reveals a long-standing commitment to advocating for dual citizenship and out-of-country voting rights. This organization launched its campaign for dual citizenship in December 2012, culminating in significant legislative achievements by July 2022. Notably, the amendments made to the Alien and Nationality Law allowed individuals previously disadvantaged by existing nationality laws to retain their citizenship even when acquiring foreign citizenship. This development, endorsed by a majority of the House of Representatives, indicates the growing acknowledgment of the importance of dual citizenship in fostering national identity and inclusion among all Liberians, regardless of their residential status.
Since the enactment of the updated citizenship law, ALCOD has reported a wave of enthusiasm among dual citizens for acquiring traditional Liberian passports, with over 1,000 passports issued shortly after the law passed. Looking ahead, ALCOD anticipates that by 2026, around 15,000 Liberians with dual nationality will possess their Ordinary Liberian Passports. This surge in passport issuance correlates with the newfound voting rights; prior to the law’s amendment, dual citizens faced prohibitions against voting in national elections, a situation that has since changed. In the most recent 2023 Presidential and General Elections, over 2,000 dual citizens exercised their right to vote, marking a significant step towards inclusive electoral participation and reflecting ALCOD’s successful efforts in bridging the gap between the Liberian diaspora and their homeland.
