By B. Linus Flomo
The Liberian Advocates for Change through Social Justice and Human Rights Inc. (LACTS), a non-profit and non-governmental organization, has presented a petition to the 55th National Legislature, urging them to prioritize the wishes of the Liberian people, who they govern, and have entrusted their lawmakers with power to be the governors.
On the second day of its sitting, Wednesday, January 17, LACTS submitted an in-depth list of national priorities that they termed as the “wishes of the governed,” in which the civil society group highlighted several important areas of concern that, when addressed properly, will better the lives of the Liberian people.
LACTS named some of these as a better healthcare delivery system, an improved education system that aligns with the Constitution, Civic and Voter Education (CVE), a productive agricultural sector, enhanced road connectivity (starting with major highways in all counties), a fair and equitable justice system that provides equal justice for all in accordance with the 1986 Constitution of Liberia, and fair concession agreements. Others are a zero-tolerance policy for illicit drug trafficking, production, distribution, and use in Liberia.
“The Constitution grants citizens the right to assemble and petition their government for the common good. In this regard, and in accordance with their constitutional mandate, the people, represented by LACTS, have met, discussed, and voted on these national issues,” Emmanuel Beyan Tarnue, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of LACTS, said on the grounds of the Capitol Building, when he presented the petition to the lawmakers, noting, “As such, we are submitting these wishes to you, our representatives, on the 16th day of January, 2024.”
“The wishes of the governed include a desire for a better healthcare system that ensures accessibility, affordability, and high-quality care for all citizens,” he said, adding, “Education is also a top priority, with a call for an educational system that nurtures the minds of young people and prepares them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.”
Tarnue emphasized the importance of a productive and sustainable agricultural sector, and the need for improved road connectivity to promote unity and economic growth across the country. “A fair and equitable justice system that upholds the rights of all citizens is a top priority,” he added.
He also raised concerns about unfair concession agreements, particularly in the natural resource sector, which have hindered economic development and exacerbated social inequalities, urging the government to review and renegotiate these agreements in consultation with the Liberian people.
The LACTS boss called for a comprehensive approach to address the issue of illicit drug trafficking, production, distribution, and use in Liberia. The group advocated for robust enforcement agencies, rehabilitation centers, and effective programs to combat the drug addiction pandemic and protect the future of the country’s youth.
LACTS plans to continue its advocacy efforts, with a forthcoming submission focusing on the wishes of the governed for local government. To accelerate this process, they request urgent logistical support. Additionally, LACTS will request relevant ministries to assess the resources needed to fulfill the wishes of the people and seek the necessary budgetary allocations.
The organization aims to promote accountability, transparency, good governance, and the timely implementation of the wishes of the governed. Its objective is to encourage popular participation in the decision-making process to improve the welfare and well-being of Liberians in general.
