Monrovia – In what appears to be a major step toward fostering reconciliation and promoting unity in the wake of Liberia’s polarized 2023 general elections, the Liberian government has reached out to former President George Manneh Weah, seeking his assistance in advocating for Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
In a communication, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti stated as Liberia prepares to officially launch its bid for the UNSC seat on September 27, the government and its citizens recognize the crucial role former President Weah played in initiating this historic endeavor.
She wrote, “Your Excellency, it was under your esteemed leadership that the process for Liberia’s bid for the non-permanent seat on the UNSC began. The foundation you laid is essential for our efforts, and we believe that your voice will amplify our campaign and ensure the successful completion of what you began. Your role in maintaining peace in Liberia during the recent elections has been widely recognized, cementing your status as a Global Peace Ambassador.”
On behalf of the government, Minister Nyanti invited former President Weah to join President Joseph Boakai, former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and Nobel Laureate Leymah Gbowee in gathering support for the bid.
“We would be deeply honored if you could join these prominent figures in supporting Liberia’s bid for the UNSC,” she said.
She added, “We specifically request a brief video message, around one minute in length, endorsing Liberia’s bid, and we would be grateful if you could join us at the official launch at the United Nations Headquarters on September 27, 2024, at 2:30 PM. Your message and presence would emphasize Liberia’s historical contributions to the United Nations and global peace, and showcase your personal commitment to these efforts.”
Nyanti emphasized that Weah’s support at this critical moment would elevate Liberia’s standing in the international community and reinforce the nation’s dedication to peace and stability.
Background on Liberia’s Bid
The process for Liberia to secure a non-permanent seat on the UNSC from 2026-2027 was initiated under the Weah-Taylor administration.
In his 2023 State of the Nation address, President Weah highlighted his administration’s diplomatic efforts toward securing this seat. He noted Liberia’s candidacy was endorsed during the 40th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union in February 2022, as well as by the African Group of Ambassadors at the United Nations.
Your Excellency, it was under your esteemed leadership that the process for Liberia’s bid for the non-permanent seat on the UNSC began. The foundation you laid is essential for our efforts, and we believe that your voice will amplify our campaign and ensure the successful completion of what you began. Your role in maintaining peace in Liberia during the recent elections has been widely recognized, cementing your status as a Global Peace Ambassador.
Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs
“This will be a proud moment for our nation, as it signifies Liberia’s acceptance among the global community as a country capable of contributing to world peace,” Weah stated in his address.
He further noted the symbolic significance of Liberia’s journey from a war-torn nation to one that could now sit on the UN Security Council, recalling the crucial role the United Nations played in restoring peace to Liberia through the deployment of the UNMIL peacekeeping force.
Recognizing Weah’s Contributions
In her letter, Foreign Minister Nyanti recognized Weah’s efforts in laying the groundwork for Liberia’s bid.
She wrote, “As Liberia prepares to launch its official bid for a non-permanent seat on the UNSC on September 27, 2024, we acknowledge the significant role you played in this historic journey.”
She added that as a founding member of the United Nations and a former non-permanent member of the UNSC in 1961, Liberia has a longstanding commitment to global peace and security. Since the end of its civil war in 2003, Liberia has transitioned into a contributor to international peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts.
Nyanti expressed the government’s “heartfelt gratitude” to Weah for his commitment to peace, emphasizing that his “global presence as a peace ambassador has fortified Liberia’s position on the world stage.”
A Major Step Toward Reconciliation
Political analysts believe that the government’s invitation to former President Weah could pave the way for national reconciliation and healing after a highly contentious election.
Weah’s political party, the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), has often accused the Unity Party-led government of disrespecting their leader, citing instances like his alleged exclusion from VIP access at the Roberts International Airport.
Recently, tensions escalated when armed security officers, acting on a faulty search warrant, raided a neighborhood near CDC headquarters, leading to clashes that left both partisans and security personnel injured.
