By S. Siapha Mulbah
The Liberian Crusaders for Peace (LCP) in partnership with the Government of Liberia and other partners have launched a nationwide awareness campaign on non-violence elections, women’s political participation and protection ahead of the pending October 10, 2023.
According to the Executive Director of the LCP, Julie Endee, peace is the most essential thing needed for all Liberians during electioneering period to promote democracy for all.
Queen Endee disclosed that women have held the back of political decision making giving all the support to the male dominant leadership that have served the country since its foundation.
The narrative she said needs to be changed thereby protecting participation for more females in politics.
She said the awareness launched is not about telling Liberians who to vote to power put rather spreading the message of peace, free and fair election as well as soliciting more support to females seeking political offices.
The Liberian cultural ambassador maintained that the rule of law needs to take its course before and after elections so that violence in any form and manner can be abolished.
She that Liberia as a country had been through a lot from political conflicts resulting from past elections among others.
“We are going to reach out to the 15 counties preaching peace to all citizens and telling all our female aspirants to stand their ground and make sure that the number of women in the capital building be increased after the elections. Do be deterred with the pressure from the process,” she added.
The program was launched Friday May 5, 2023 at the Invincible Sports Park by Ambassador Josephine Nkrumah, the Special Representative of the president of ECOWAS Commission in Liberia and was graced by several diplomatic missions and development partners of the government.
Amb. Nkrumah said the peace of Liberia is non-negotiable so every factor is needed to maintain coexistence. “Let peace reign with the effort of all citizens as the country democracy continues to grow.”
She lauded the Crusaders for Peace for the initiative leading to national election while extending appreciation to the partners for supporting the process.
The day started with a fun far sporting tournament where 18 teams participated under the theme, “Let’s maintain the peace, show love and give women a chance.”
The program was in collaboration with Ministry of Gender Children and Social Protection, Ministry of Information Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Federation of Liberian Youth and others.
