As the United States of America celebrates 146th anniversary today, America’s Ambassador to Liberia Michael McCarthy says together both countries can reaffirm their commitment to democracy.
He then defined democracy as not just stepping away from power, but giving it up peacefully to a rival political party pointing out that democracy and democratic norms also mean taking international responsibility.
“Democracy is neither easy nor is it a given. We have to remind ourselves that democracy is more than just a well-written constitution or norms and traditions, but it requires care and constant renewal and leaders who understand that their actions and words matter in maintaining a democratic society,” Amb. McCarthy reminded.
Making remarks Thursday, June 30, 2022, at the 246th celebration of the Independence of the United States of America observed in Monrovia, he said there are very familiar democratic values which are common with the United States and Liberia because historically as this year commemorates 200 years since the arrival on the Liberian shores, black Americans who were searching for freedom, it is exactly 175 years in July since Liberia’s own declaration of independence was birth.
He explained that while historians point to George Washington’s decision to step down after two terms in office as setting the world-wide example of democratic transition and the transfer of power more than two centuries ago, he believe the less observed example of John Adams, the US second president is impressive an example.
“Adams, as the former Vice President under Washington, served as Washington’s successor, but only for one term in office before being defeated at the polls by Thomas Jefferson in the heavily contested election of 1800 and with that defeat, Adams stepped down and peacefully transferred power to a political rival that, to say the least, he didn’t like very much that is the example that stands out in history,” the American diplomat explained.
He then praised Liberia for what he termed as rightfully taking a leadership role as an essential example of democracy adding, “That is the example Liberia set for the world in 2018 and it is the kind of example that speaks volume in West Africa.”
Meanwhile, President George Manneh Weah in his remarks exalted the diplomatic relationship between Liberia and the United States, describing it as historic and mutually rewarding.
The Liberian Leader deeply reflected on how far the bond of friendship between the two sovereign nations has come and extended warmest greetings and heartfelt congratulations to US President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and the American people as they commemorate the birth of the American nation on July 4.
He reflected on the fond history that has tied the two countries together in what he termed a “special bond of relations in which we share a commonality in politics, religion, culture, and a strong belief in the value of the rule of law, liberal democracy, and human rights.”
“How much we share in the American story has been publicly documented for generations, and we remain proud of the unique friendship that has evolved,” the Liberian Chief Executive asserted.
President Weah reassured America of his Government’s commitment to the historical ties subsisting between both countries for more than two centuries.
