Vice President Jeremiah Koung has emphasized the importance of inclusive governance, with a call to world leaders.
“Governance must not only serve the people; it must also involve their full participation in policy discussions that provide sustainable solutions to the challenges we face,” he stressed.
Koung, advocating for policies that empower citizens in decision-making processes, also highlighted Liberia’s commitment to democratic principles and urged international partners to support initiatives that foster civic engagement.
He spoke over the weekend when he represented President Joseph Boakai at the 3rd Annual Meeting of the Global Council for Political Renewal (GCPR) in Brussels, Belgium, aiming to inspire innovative solutions to political challenges, reinforcing the significance of active citizen involvement in governance.
VP Koung noted, “Our gathering today is not just an opportunity to reflect on the challenges facing governance worldwide; it is also a chance to renew, reimagine, and take decisive actions to build a more united and prosperous global society.”
“Excellences, we cannot call for political renewal without trust, because trust is the cornerstone of democracy and good governance. When citizens lose faith in institutions and leaders’ ability to address their socio-economic needs, the social contract of governance is severely weakened,” he stated.
“Yet, renewal is possible, through bold, inclusive, and accountable leadership. So, our call for political renewal must also embrace civic technology, which can make government services more accessible and responsive to citizens’ needs,” he intoned.
The VP further narrated, “We must also empower our youth to demand accountability and to actively engage in shaping policies, reinforcing the global belief that democracy is something that is built, not inherited.”
According to him, this is the future of governance, one of inclusion and accountability, revealing that the gathering presents an opportunity to foster global cooperation that transcends borders to address pressing issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and security threats. VP Koung added, “As we leave this meeting of the council, let us not simply talk about political renewal; let us embody it. We must take this conversation into parliaments, communities, and digital spaces where the future of governance is being shaped. Political renewal is not a destination; it is a continuous journey, and today, in this room, the journey must be accelerated.”
