GBARNGA — The Liberian Advocates for Change Through Social Justice and Human Rights Inc. (LACTS) has commended Liberians for their commitment to democracy.
On October 10, 2023, LACTS conducted a comprehensive assessment of the general elections in Liberia. Tasked with observing the electoral process in all 15 counties as national observers, LACTS primary focus was on ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and on adherence to international standards and domestic electoral laws.
LACTS deployed observers to a number of polling stations in various counties to oversee the electoral process and to ensure that the election was free, fair, and transparent in keeping with
international standards and domestic electoral laws.
LACTS has successfully completed its
mission to monitor the general elections held on October 10, 2023 and is gearing up in preparation to monitor the presidential run-up scheduled for November 7th, 2023.
Over all, LACTS Praises Liberia for its commitment to upholding democratic values and conducting a peaceful and transparent electoral process.
After careful observation and analysis, LACTS provides the following key findings: 1. Peaceful Conduct:
Prior to the general election, the barbaric and unfortunate violent clashes between supporters of some political parties during campaign activities sometimes resulted in fatalities and injuries
as was reported in Foya, Lofa County, Montserrado County, etc.
This sparked fear and anxiety in the hearts of people across the nation. As a result of this, some citizens had lost faith in peaceful outcome of the elections and the stability of the country.
Despite the regrettable violent incidences, we remain thankful for the forceful intervention and contribution of many international and domestic partners like the US Embassy, European Union, ECOWAS, USAID, UNDP, youth and Students Organizations, Civil Society organizations, law enforcement, the National Elections Commission – NEC, and the commitment of the Liberian
people to maintain the peace.
Our collective efforts played a vital role in achieving a successful election. Undeniably, the election day was marked by a generally peaceful atmosphere, with only isolated incidents of minor disruptions reported.
2. High Voter Turnout:
Voter turnout was high, demonstrating the commitment of the Liberian people to participate in the democratic process.
3. Transparency and Accountability:
The electoral authorities exhibited a commendable level of transparency throughout the electoral process, ensuring that voters’ voices were accurately represented. This transparency extended to voter registration, polling, vote counting, and results announcement.
4. Inclusivity: The election was inclusive, allowing diverse political parties and candidates to compete,
ensuring that the voices of the people were well represented.
5. Electoral Commission:
The National Elections Commission of Liberia is to be commended for its meticulous
organization and management of the elections.
6. International Cooperation:
Liberia’s commitment to international collaboration and assistance in conducting elections was
evident, and LACTS worked closely with international observers, civil society groups, national authorities, and stakeholders.
7. Media Freedom:
The media played a vital role in informing the public, and there were no major impediments to media freedom during the election.
8. Post-Election Stability:
Liberia has shown resilience in ensuring post-election stability and continuing to uphold the principles of democracy.
LACTS acknowledges that there is room for improvement in areas such as logistics, voter education, and the strengthening of the electoral framework, and we offer support and recommendations for these aspects.
In conclusion, the Liberian Advocates for Change Through Social Justice and Human Rights Inc. is
hopeful that Liberia will continue to make progress in building a strong, inclusive, and transparent electoral system that upholds the rights and will of the people in accordance with
we look forward to the presidential runoff, LACTS urges all citizens to remain civil as we
engage in the final process of the election. Kindly take notice that we the people of Liberia have
nothing to lose in these elections. This is because we are not voting based on promises like we
had done in passed elections. Our job descriptions are ready to be submitted to our government on inauguration day. By law, our public servants are required to do what we the employers have demanded of them. Therefore, we call on all Liberian citizens to join LACTS on
inauguration day to instruct your government on how you want your country to be governed.
Regardless of who wins the election, we most not go out in the streets to hurt anyone or destroy properties. If any politician disagrees with the elections result, let him go to court.
Recommendations:
1. Logistics: Enhance logistical support to ensure the efficient and timely deployment of election
materials and personnel in remote areas.
2. Voter Education: Strengthen voter education programs to inform citizens about their rights, the electoral process, and the importance of participation.
3. Electoral Framework: Continue to improve the electoral framework to address potential ambiguities and further enhance transparency.
4. Civic Engagement: Encourage increased civic engagement through outreach and community
involvement to strengthen democratic values.
LACTS mission offers its support to Liberia in the ongoing efforts to strengthen the electoral system and looks forward to continued collaboration in the future.
The Liberian Advocates for Change Through Social Justice and Human Rights is a Liberian civil
society organization established to provide the best quality and highest standard advocacy services to the Liberian people in general.
This primary objective will be achieved consistently by raising public awareness about the cause and possible solutions to issues that seem to tear the social fabric of our communities and municipalities. The most important issue is to recognize that popular participation in the government is a fundamental right of all citizens, as stipulated by Article 1 of the Liberian Constitution; that is paramount to nation building and national unification.