The political landscape in Liberia is facing a critical juncture, with a constitutional crisis brewing within the House of Representatives and its potential ramifications for the country’s international standing. Former presidential candidate and prominent human rights lawyer, Cllr. Tiawan Gongloe, has issued a stark warning about the actions of the majority bloc in the House and their implications for Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council. He argues that the bloc’s defiance of the Supreme Court’s ruling, coupled with their disrespectful treatment of ECOWAS delegations, casts a dark shadow over Liberia’s democratic credentials and could jeopardize its aspirations on the global stage.
At the heart of this crisis lies the majority bloc’s refusal to adhere to the Supreme Court’s decision, a stance that has garnered the support of both President Boakai and the Senate. Cllr. Gongloe condemns this blatant disregard for the rule of law as a grave violation of the Liberian Constitution. He contends that such actions not only undermine the integrity of the country’s judicial system but also send a troubling message to the international community about Liberia’s commitment to democratic principles. This defiance, coupled with the snubbing of two high-level ECOWAS delegations, one led by the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament and the other by the esteemed Professor Ibrahim Gambari, paints a picture of a nation grappling with internal divisions and a disregard for established protocols.
The implications of this constitutional standoff extend far beyond Liberia’s borders. Cllr. Gongloe warns that the majority bloc’s conduct could significantly damage Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council. The international community closely scrutinizes a nation’s adherence to democratic norms and respect for international institutions when considering its suitability for such a prestigious position. By openly flouting the Supreme Court’s ruling and displaying a lack of respect for ECOWAS officials, the Liberian government risks jeopardizing its chances of securing the coveted seat. This could represent a significant setback for Liberia’s international ambitions and its efforts to play a more prominent role in global affairs.
Cllr. Gongloe expresses particular dismay at the majority bloc’s treatment of Professor Ibrahim Gambari, a highly respected African statesman and diplomat with a distinguished career both in Nigeria and at the United Nations. He emphasizes that such disrespect towards a figure of Professor Gambari’s stature reflects poorly on Liberia and demonstrates a lack of understanding of the country’s historical role in world affairs. This behavior, Cllr. Gongloe argues, not only exposes the majority bloc’s abuse of power but also reveals a worrying degree of ignorance and naiveté that is unbecoming of elected officials entrusted with upholding the nation’s laws.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Cllr. Gongloe remains optimistic about Liberia’s future. He calls upon all well-meaning Liberians, both at home and abroad, to persevere in the fight for a better Liberia. He urges citizens to remain vigilant in upholding the rule of law and to continue advocating for a government that prioritizes service over self-enrichment. His call to action echoes the spirit of resilience and determination that has characterized Liberia’s journey towards democracy and reinforces the importance of citizen engagement in holding elected officials accountable.
Cllr. Gongloe’s pronouncements serve as a wake-up call to the Liberian government and its people. The ongoing constitutional crisis not only threatens Liberia’s internal stability but also jeopardizes its international standing. The majority bloc’s actions, if left unchecked, could have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s future. It is imperative that all stakeholders work towards a resolution that upholds the rule of law, respects democratic principles, and safeguards Liberia’s reputation on the global stage. The future of Liberia’s democracy hinges on the choices made in these critical times.
