MONROVIA – The Servant-In-Charge of the Liberia First movements (LFM) Sheikh Al Moustapha Kouyateh has called on the National Elections Commission to conduct free, fair and transparent elections come October 10, 2023.
By Agnes Tarr, Contributing writer
According to Sheikh Kouyateh, democracy relies on the confidence and trust of the people, and it is the responsibility of the National Elections Commission to ensure that Liberian citizens exercise their rights to vote without any hindrance.
The LFM political leader is at the same time calling on the NEC to fulfill its duty with integrity, impartiality and efficiency, fostering an environment where everyone’s voice will be heard and everyone’s vote counts.
Liberia’s crucial presidential and legislative elections will be held on October 10, 2023. This will be the first general election that will be solely conducted by the NEC. Already, the Election House has completed the voter registration exercise – and for the first time using a biometric voter registration.
Analysts say the stakes are high as the elections will be a litmus test to Liberian hard-end peace.
Owing to this, Sheikh Kouyateh made a passionate appeal to all political actors, adding that in the spirit of constructive engagement, political parties should refrain from personal attacks and instead, focus on policies that will uplift the lives of Liberians.
The LFM leader added that the nation faces multifaceted challenges, including poverty, unemployment, inadequate education, and healthcare, adding it is through substantive policy discussions and debates that solutions can be identified to chart a path towards progress.
He then called on the public to put the interest and well-being of the Liberian people above partisan agendas and work together to create positive change.
Kouyateh, a successful businessman and former senatorial candidate for Montserrado County, has been a staunch advocate of the war and economic crimes court in Liberia to try people accused of committing war and economic crimes in Liberia from as far back as 1979 to present.
Kouyateh said establishing the war and economic crimes court will be his top priority if elected, adding that it is imperative that Liberians confront the dark chapters of its past and ensure that those responsible face justices to serve as deterrent for future occurrence.
He urged all political parties to unite in supporting the establishment of the war and economic crimes court in Liberia. “We have witnessed a lack of transparency, accountability, and responsible decision that uplift the lives of Liberians,” he said.
