CONGO TOWN, Liberia – The pro-democracy group Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND) has officially been called upon by some citizens of Liberia to champion important reforms aimed at transforming the country’s governance.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
In a petition presented at the inauguration of STAND’s national headquarters, a coalition of Liberians requested the organization to lead initiatives addressing corruption, poverty, inadequate healthcare, and the lack of accountability in public office.
Representatives from various sectors of Liberian society, including students, market women, teachers, healthcare workers, and civil servants, united in this appeal to STAND, urging its leadership to tackle the issues that have long plagued Liberia. They emphasized their collective suffering and frustration with the country’s trajectory, asserting that years of corruption and mismanagement have trapped the nation in poverty and hindered its development.
STAND Chairman Mulbah Morlu, responding to the petition, conveyed the group’s commitment to serving as a ‘force for good’ in Liberia, fighting against corruption and injustice. “STAND is a force for good, for those that are afraid of STAND, you need not to be afraid except you are doing wrong,” Morlu stated. “So, if you are in government doing bad things, then you have good reason to be afraid because STAND will go after those that commit wrongs, those that are corrupt and pollute the seat of power—and we are doing these things without any desire for political incentive.”
Key Reforms Requested by the People
The petition outlined an all-inclusive list of reforms, starting with a strong stance against corruption. The group of citizens in their petition requested STAND to push for legislation that would categorize weighty corruption cases as non-bailable offenses if the amount involved exceeds $10,000. This measure, they argue, would reinforce the rule of law, deter misconduct, and protect public resources.
Healthcare and education were also central issues. The petitioners called on STAND to advocate for free healthcare services for expectant mothers and children under 18. Additionally, they urged STAND to advocate for free, compulsory education through grade 12 in all public schools and to impose tuition caps on private institutions. According to the petition, making education accessible to all children is essential for Liberia’s future prosperity.
The petitioners further demanded STAND’s advocacy to address structural issues within Liberia’s public sector, including shorter terms for elected officials to foster accountability and introduce a recall provision for non-performing officials. Reducing these tenures, the petition suggests, would help maintain leaders’ accountability to the public and reduce complacency.
Empowering Vulnerable Populations and Restoring National Resources
Another important focus of the petition was on restoring dignity to women and girls, many of whom have been affected by poverty and exploitation. The petition urged STAND to prioritize laws and programs that provide meaningful educational and economic opportunities for women, addressing the factors that contribute to prostitution and exploitation.
The coalition also pressed for a reassessment of Liberia’s resource agreements with foreign companies, demanding a fairer distribution of wealth generated from the country’s natural resources. They argue that revenue from resources should directly benefit local communities through improved infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
“A Vehicle for Liberia’s Rebirth”
In their appeal, the citizens expressed confidence in STAND’s potential to lead a nationwide movement for change. “We are confident that by embracing these priorities, STAND will become a vehicle for Liberia’s rebirth—a nation that is economically vibrant, politically accountable, culturally strong, and secure,” said Mouna Farhat.
In his concluding statement, Chairman Morlu reiterated STAND’s commitment to advocating for the people’s interests without any political agenda. “STAND will go after those that commit wrongs,” he asserted, promising that STAND’s actions would align with the citizens’ demand for a just and accountable Liberia.
Support Independent Journalism
Your support helps FrontPage Africa continue delivering independent, credible, and impactful journalism. Every contribution strengthens our ability to investigate, inform, and hold power accountable while keeping quality journalism accessible to our readers.
Support our journalism or subscribe to receive the latest FrontPage Africa stories and updates.
