By Bill W. Cooper
Count eight of the Revised Farmington Declaration 2023 states that all parties whose signatures are affixed thereto shall conduct political campaigns activates in such a manner that they will not only preserve but also enhance and maintain the peace and unity of Liberia.
While count four reiterates that all parties shall commit to an orderly and peaceful electoral process in 2023.
However, this seems not the case as the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) is recorded as the first political party to breach the agreement, right at the start of the official campaign process, by violating the campaign management rules as laid out in the Declaration.
The governing party’s Youth League, during the official kick-off of campaign activities, paraded through the streets of Monrovia carrying a casket bearing the image of Unity Party Standard Bearer, Joseph N. Boakai.
The move by the ruling establishment is in total violation of the principles of the Farmington River Declaration, crafted in 2003 with the aim of promoting national unity and reconciliation, which has been touted as a significant milestone in the country’s post-war recovery.
The situation further raises concerns over the commitment to the Declaration and its underlying values signed by all political party leaders in the presence of both ECOWAS, United Nations, and other local observers.
The parade, according to our reporter, took place following the pronouncement of the official start of the campaign leading to the conduct of the October 10 elections at the CDC party headquarters in Congo Town.
Furthermore, our report stated that the action by the CDC youth league left onlookers startled and divided, as the party’s supporters saw it as a symbolic critique of Boakai’s political career, while others viewed it as a crude and disrespectful gesture that undermines the principles of free, fair, transparent, and violent free elections and contradictory to the document.
The Farmington River Declaration was adopted in 2003 as a pledge to reject violence, intolerance, and divisiveness, and instead, foster a culture of dialogue, inclusiveness, and respect for others.
It was signed by major political parties and marked a turning point in Liberia’s efforts to move forward from the devastating civil war that plagued the country, as well as a guide for the upcoming Presidential and Legislative elections.
The CDC Youth league, however, seems to have challenged the spirit of reconciliation that the declaration represents.
Some Liberians spoken to, argue that the parading of a casket bearing Boakai’s image signifies a disregard for the principles of forgiveness and healing, upon which the declaration was built, expressing concerns that such actions could reignite political tensions and hinder the nation’s progress towards sustainable peace and development.
But some of the CDC supplements during the parade argue that decision was a form of political expression aimed at highlighting their grievances and frustrations with Boakai’s political ideology and perceived failures during his time in office.
Meanwhile, their justification has been met with a series of condemnations, with latest being Bomi County Senator, Edwin Snowe, who said, “As a passionate and ardent believer in the principles of democracy, I am compelled to speak out against the recent actions witnessed during yesterday’s parade, organized by a group of overzealous youths of the CDC.”
According to Sen. Snowe, it deeply saddens him to see a casket with the image of the lead opposition leader, Amb. Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., of the Unity Party, paraded in such a manner, and noted, “As someone who has declared support and endorsed the second term bid of President Weah, I must emphasize that I cannot condone any actions that undermine the very essence of our hard-earned democracy.”
He maintained, “Our democracy thrives on the pillars of respect, inclusivity, and constructive debate. Using provocative displays like the one witnessed in yesterday’s parade only serves to stoke division and animosity among fellow citizens. Such actions do not only tarnish the reputation of the CDC, but also threaten the foundation of our nation’s democratic principles.”
“Let it be known that I firmly stand against any groupings within the CDC or any political party that resort to tactics that harm the spirit of our democracy and undermine our peace. We must uphold our shared responsibility to foster a political environment that encourages open dialogue, understanding, and unity among all citizens.
As we move forward, let us reaffirm our commitment to a united and peaceful democratic process, where diverse opinions are respected and we work together for the betterment of our beloved nation. Only through collaboration and understanding can we pave the way for progress and a brighter future for all,” the Bomi County Senator asserted.
Senator Snowe further emphasized, “Whilst the CDC National Campaign Manager, Mr. Eugene Nagbe, has issued a strong worded statement condemning these distasteful actions, I urge Mr. President to also demonstrate his commitment to both the Farmington Declaration and to a further pledge he just signed on Wednesday August 2, by openly and publicly condemning these actions and holding these youths to account.”
He warned, “Let us all uphold and live up to the integrity of the Farmington Declaration, signed by political leaders and witnessed by the UN, ECOWAS, and other members of the diplomatic community, which Mr. President, the custodian of our democracy, has continuously reiterated his support for. Peace in our Liberia is cardinal to all our aspirations.”
It can be recalled that President Weah also noted that the Farmington Declaration, which commits politicians to avoid any activities that would breed violence to undermine the conduct of the October 10 elections, is not just a piece of paper, but rather, a solemn pledge to uphold the values of democracy, peace, and inclusivity.
