Monrovia – The Institute for Research and Democratic Development (IREDD), in collaboration with the Liberia Massacre Survivors Association (LIMASA) and the Independent Human Rights Investigators (IHRI), has submitted a petition to the Legislature, urging the passage of an Act to memorialize the incidents that occurred during the Liberian Civil conflict.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh (0886729972) – [email protected]
The petition was addressed to Representative Gonpue L. Kargon, Chairman of the Committee on Claims, Petitions, and Human Rights at the House of Representatives.
During a gathering at the Capitol Building on Thursday, Mathias Yeaney, the Executive Director of IREDD, expressed that their petition seeks to recognize and honor the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) final report.
“In accordance with Article 17 of the Liberian Constitution, the Institute for Research and Democratic Development (IREDD) partners with the Liberia Massacre Survivors Association (LIMASA) and the Independent Human Rights Investigators (IHRI) to present this ‘Statement of Petition’ to the esteemed members of the House of Representatives, specifically the Committee on Claims, Petitions, and Human Rights. This petition requests the Legislature’s consideration of an essential legislation titled: ‘An Act to Memorialize the Liberian Civil Conflict by Establishing The Memorial,'” stated the IREDD Executive Director.
Mr. Yeaney further emphasized, “This petition is a direct reflection of the TRC’s final report, which emphasizes the importance of memorializing the Liberian civil war. Such a memorial will serve as a poignant reminder to current and future generations of Liberians about the profound impact the civil war had on the fabric of our nation.”
The proposed Act, if enacted, is expected to play a crucial role in preventing any recurrence of violence in the future. “IREDD, in collaboration with the African Transitional Justice Legacy Fund (ATJLF), firmly believes that the establishment of the Memorial Act will help strengthen and promote national cohesion, fostering respect and interest among citizens, ultimately preventing any potential resurgence of civil unrest,” Yeaney added.
Responding to the petition on behalf of the Committee on Claims, Petitions, and Human Rights, Representative Ceebee C. D. Barshell, Co-chairman of the Committee representing Montserrado County District #3, commended IREDD for pursuing a peaceful course of action by petitioning the Legislature.
“I express my gratitude and honor in receiving this petition, especially considering the troubled times our nation endured during the Liberian civil crisis. I wish that we had taken this important step of petitioning the government earlier,” remarked Representative Barshell.
While Representative Barshell clarified that he is not the committee’s chairman, he assured the petitioners that the chairman would receive the petition and proceed with the necessary actions to present it before the plenary and the Speaker of the House.
The petition, once reviewed and acted upon by the Legislature, could potentially pave the way for a lasting and meaningful memorial to honor the victims and lessons of the Liberian Civil conflict, contributing to national healing and unity.
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