By Laurina B. Lormia
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, has emphasized the need for strong democratic institutions, civic engagement, and accountability in governance as essential pillars for Liberia’s progress.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Minister Nyanti, during the Second Summit for Democracy and Political Accountability, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cllr. Deweh E. Gray, highlighted the collective responsibility of both leaders and citizens in upholding the rule of law.
Addressing participants at Naymote two-day summit, Gray described democracy as more than just a system of governance, calling it a promise that ensures power remains with the people, institutions serve the public good, and justice is upheld as a right rather than a privilege.
She cautioned that, democracy does not sustain itself and requires the active participation of all stakeholders to flourish.
“A robust democracy hinges on the rule of law, where justice is impartial, institutions are transparent, and no one is above accountability. When the rule of law falters, corruption festers, rights diminish, and progress stalls,” Gray stated.
She stressed that while the government plays a leading role in safeguarding justice, citizens must also uphold legal processes and reject mob violence and misinformation.
She urged the public to demand fairness from the courts while respecting the judicial system’s integrity.
Gray also underscored the importance of civic participation, stating that voting every few years is not enough to sustain democracy.
Instead, she called on Liberians to remain engaged daily, holding leaders accountable and ensuring that governance remains people-centered.
“In an era of misinformation and disinformation, unverified claims can ignite instability, undermine trust, and fracture unity. Citizens must verify facts and reject the chaos sown by falsehoods,” she warned.
She further stressed the need for inclusivity in governance, advocating for greater participation of youth, women, and marginalized groups in decision-making processes.
She asserted that a truly sustainable democracy must serve all Liberians, regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic background.
“Good governance is governance of trust. Leaders must serve with integrity, manage resources responsibly, and answer to the people. Corruption and inefficiency erode the social contract, and they cannot be tolerated,” she added, emphasizing that national leadership must crack down on mismanagement and enforce accountability among public officials.
“As we leave this summit, let us commit to action. Let us be the generation that strengthens democracy, upholds human rights, and leaves behind a legacy of accountability and justice. The future of Liberia is in our hands let us shape it with courage, wisdom, and responsibility,” she stated.
Gray concluded the address by urging both leaders and citizens to work together in shaping Liberia’s future.
She called for bold leadership, an informed and engaged populace, and a united stance against misinformation to ensure a democracy that thrives.