By Precious D. Freeman
President George Manneh Weah, on December 20 2023, switched on the lights of the National Christmas Tree at the Judiciary and the Executive Mansion on Capitol Hill, encouraging Liberians to keep the peace.
The brief occasion is an annual traditional event to symbolize the commencement of the festive season celebration.
The occasion was graced by senior government officials, members of the Legislature, Judiciary, and the Diplomatic Corps.
In his message, which was centered on love and unity, President Weah stated that the lighting of the National Christmas Tree symbolizes the official commencement of the festive season in Liberia.
The President called on all to endeavor to extend a helping hand by sharing and showing love to family, friends, and neighbors, as stated in the Bible.
He further stated that whatever superficial partition that has prevented Liberians from coming together as a people should be dispensed with during the festive season.
He urged all Liberians living at home and abroad to hold together and join hands in building the nation. According to him, Liberians are stronger together.
The Liberian leader, while switching on the light, also stressed that he hopes that the light will keep the nation and its people peaceful.
Speaking further, he added that he wants the light to shine in the hearts of all Liberians.
The President then called on all to celebrate the Lord and Savior, Jesus, for all He has done for Liberia and its people, and wished all a Merry Christmas and Happy and Prosperous New Year.
Receiving the President at the Judiciary compound, the Chief Justice of Liberia, Madam Sie-A-Nyene Youh, mentioned that the lighting of the Christmas tree is a system that has been put in place and nothing should stop it.
According to her, it has been a mandate over the years that they all come together through their coordination in order to make this history.
“We did not want this to pass because this is how we continue the tradition, so, on behalf of myself and my colleagues, we are happy to receive you here,” she said.
She also appreciated all those that were present at the occasion, from both the Executive and the Judiciary, who made the program a success.
Meanwhile, the annual Christmas tree traditional exercise performed by President Weah on Wednesday will mark his last as President of Liberia, following his recent defeat to the main opposition leader, Joseph Boakai, in the November 14, 2023 Presidential Run-off Elections.
