Africa-Press – Liberia. Delegates of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa and Stakeholders Posed for a picture at the end of the Post- 2023 Liberia Presidential and Legislative Elections Review Workshop
Monrovia-The Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA), an election monitoring group, has ended a two-day Multi-Stakeholder Post- 2023 Liberia Presidential and Legislative Elections Review Workshop, laying down several recommendations for future elections.
The aim of the workshop according to the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa is to correct some of the wrongs during and after the election.
Speaking during the event, EISA’s Head of Mission and former Vice President of Zambia Dr Nevers Mumba said the recently concluded 2023 general and presidential elections in Liberia have been a testament to the nation’s dedication to democratic principles.
According to the Zambia Vice President, despite the gains Liberia is making in improving democracy, the lack of representation from the women and marginalized groups will undermine the essence of democracy.
“Democracy without the participation and representation of the majority (Women) and minority groups is incomplete, for example 66 out of 73 House of representative members are males and 27 out of 30 Senate members are male: Establishing legal frameworks and regulations that effectively safeguard the participation of women cannot be over emphasized. Strengthening mechanisms for accessibility for the disadvantaged and marginalized is critical. But women must accept the challenge and stand up,” Dr. Mumba said.
In the presence of the development partners and democracy advocates EISA Head of Mission said the election was successful despite facing challenges. He indicated that overcoming obstacles was feasible.
“The success realized implies that with a willing leadership, democratic advancement can be achieved in Liberia. There was no visible intention to rig the elections,” he said.
Dr. Mumba stressed on the need for timely response in providing funding and strengthening Political Parties across the country.
“There is a highlighted need to address the timing of funding for elections, suggesting a potential area for improvement. Democracy is expensive. Let’s plan ahead. Strengthening political parties is a crucial aspect that needs attention for the strengthening of multiparty democracy driven by issue-based politics and in touch with constituencies and citizens,” he said.
Dr. Mumba added: “As all of you strive to do better during future elections, I want to underscore the importance of political collective will. Liberia has established a path for the sub region, the content and the world at large. Consolidating these gains will set a firm foundation for the country as it grapples with other challenges such as poverty, inequality, inclusion and poor infrastructure.”
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