By Grace Q. Bryant
Montserrado County District 9 Representative, Frank Saah Foko, is requesting the House of Representatives to establish a Young Legislators Caucus to empower youth representation.
Representative Foko emphasized the crucial role young people play in shaping the nation’s future.
In his address to the assembly, Representative Foko underscored the significance of youth representation in decision-making processes, highlighting the legal rights conferred upon individuals aged 25 and above to contest as representatives, and 35 above to vie for senatorial positions.
He stressed the need for a dedicated platform where young lawmakers could collaborate independently, ensuring that the voices of Liberia’s youth are heard and their concerns addressed effectively.
The establishment of the Young Legislators Caucus aims to bridge the gap between the younger demographic and traditional avenues of political influence. By providing a designated space for young representatives to articulate the issues affecting their peers, the caucus seeks to enhance the inclusivity and responsiveness of the legislative body.
Representative Foko lamented the challenges faced by young Liberians who often feel marginalized or unsure of how to engage with governmental institutions. With the creation of the caucus, he envisions a more accessible and transparent framework wherein the concerns of young people can be directly communicated to national leadership.
Representative Foko also cited statistics indicating that 68 percent of young people actively participated in pivotal decision-making processes leading to leadership transitions.
He emphasized the imperative of empowering this demographic by providing them with a dedicated platform within the legislative framework.
He added that the establishment of the Young Legislators Caucus marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s democratic evolution, signalling a commitment to fostering youth participation and amplifying their voices in matters of governance.
“As the nation looks towards a future characterized by inclusivity and empowerment, the caucus stands poised to serve as a catalyst for positive change, ensuring that the aspirations of Liberia’s youth are not only acknowledged, but actively integrated into the fabric of policymaking,” he noted.
