MONROVIA – Vice president Jeremiah Kpan Koung has rallied national leaders to change the status quo and live up to the expectation of the Liberian people.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh – [email protected]
Addressing the maiden edition of the Summit for Democracy held under the auspices of Naymote, Partners for Democratic Development, VP Koung thanked the organizers for the summit, saying it affords young people the opportunity to interact with their leaders and share their perspectives on enhancing Liberia’s democracy and achieving sustainable development. These young people, he said, represent the “energy, lifeblood, and future of our nation and we must rise to the occasion to preserve it.”
“We, as Leaders, have the rare privilege to make decisions with consequences for the common good of our people; however, we still struggle to demonstrate a sense of accountability to the people we lead. Let it be known that the burdens, dreams, and aspirations of the people we carry on our shoulders demand the ultimate sacrifice of accountability for our stewardship.”
VP Koung, further stated that Liberia’s democracy must not only be celebrated because of peaceful elections and transition of power, but must also be based on leaders’ collective ability to be accountable to their people and improve their livelihood. “This is the essence of true leadership in a modern democracy, and we must embrace this new mindset,” he said.
He said accountability is a central piece of good governance, necessary for checks and balances over the management of public resources. He said it is accountability which strengthens democracy and fights against the abuse of political power, corruption, and upholding the rule of law.
VP Koung has made a steady rise in Liberian politics, beginning his political career as Representative following his election in 2011. He served eight years and was elected senator of Nimba. three years later, he was elected Vice President.
In his address, he said there can be no public trust without accountability, adding that citizens should have the right to access information, get explanations, and pass judgment on leaders entrusted with public responsibilities.
He further: “I believe that many of us politicians have not formed the reputation which makes our political landscape attractive. As a result of the disappointing performances of us politicians for many years, the public perception concludes that “Politics is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get rich”. Our people are tired of Business as Usual; we must restore confidence, ignite hope, and change this perception.”
“It is now a matter of urgency that we sanitize our politics so that we the leaders understand that public service is not for the accumulation of illegal wealth but a call to serve our People. Our democracy will be stronger when we, as leaders, engender the mindset that Governments are formed for the benefit of the People and this must remain our singular driving force behind our public service.”
He said as participants deliberate on issues of democracy and accountability in the different sessions during the summit, there should be frank exchange of ideas and recommendations to develop a strong resolution that can improve our governance framework.
On behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, he used this forum to reaffirm the Liberian Government’s commitment to remain accountable to the People of Liberia.
