MONROVIA – A local non-governmental organization, the Kids Educational Engagement Project (KEEP), has undertaken a nationwide initiative to educate first-time voters about the importance of voting, the reasons why they should vote, and the need to elect competent leaders.
By Henry Karmo [email protected]
In addition, KEEP is educating young voters about the dangers of being influenced to vote for a specific candidate by being transported to other parts of the country where they do not reside, in exchange for money.
As part of their civic voter education program for first-time voters, they are teaching them to avoid all forms of violence, including verbal abuse, physical fighting, and heated arguments with elections staff, observers, or other citizens.
“Do not be afraid to report any instances of electoral violence or malpractice that you witness. Familiarize yourself with the National Elections Commission (NEC) policies that provide special privileges to pregnant women, elderly people, individuals living with disabilities, single mothers, and service providers such as health workers and security personnel.”
First-time voters need to be aware of whom they vote for. They should vote for leaders whom they believe in and trust. Their votes should not be based on tribalism, family or personal relationships, peer influence, or threats from relatives, institutions, or school administrators.
“Our votes should be based on the candidates’ competency, their ability to effectively represent us, their reliability, morals, and discipline.”
KEEP is a local non-profit organization that operates at the grassroots level in four counties in Liberia: Grand Gedeh, River-cess, Gbarpolu, and Montserrado. The organization focuses on providing various support in the education sector, particularly at the primary school level.
In addition to education, KEEP is also involved in women and girls’ empowerment, economic livelihood initiatives, access to justice, promoting rights in schools, strengthening youth education through computer and reading literacy programs, child sponsorship, and advocacy.