Statement by UN Resident Coordinator Christine Umutoni at Forum with Presidential Aspirants 2023 Elections

Madame Chair, and Distinguished members of the Board of Commissioners of the National Elections Commission

Your Excellency, Josephine Nkrumah, Resident Representative of the Economic Community of West African States

Esteemed Leaders of Political Parties and Independent Candidates

Excellencies, The Doyen and Members of the Diplomatic Corps

UN colleagues

Representatives of civil society

Distinguished Guests; Ladies and Gentlemen

Mama Liberia is entering yet another important period in her history. Presidential and legislative elections are a moment of national pride when the citizen get to choose their leaders.

In any country this is a critical period to show political maturity and growth in democracy. We have no doubt that as Liberia has continued to be an example of peace in the region – that this country will go through these elections successfully. I can only make few points of emphasis.

Voter confidence in elections is crucial. Continuing to build trust in the electoral process for many individuals and groups will remain critical.  One of the drivers of decreased confidence in the process is  misinformation/disinformation, these days,  it is online based information particularly social media is causing problems if not well utilized. This confuses and overwhelms voters and threatens to derail confidence in the conduct of the elections and in the national elections commission. This is something we must watch so as to use media responsibly for the common good.

I sincerely commend the Chairperson and Board of Commissioners of the National Elections Commission for their continuing efforts to reaffirm and demonstrate their independence and impartiality to strengthen public confidence in the commission and electoral process.

There was remarkable progress, especially in the conduct of the Biometric Voter Registration and Candidate Nomination process. If there are some areas to be tightened let this continue to be done but most important keep the population informed. I congratulate you for setting up the communication team. This will continue to be important through out the processes to reassure the citizens about the fairness and accuracy of the process. With 10 October around the corner, the need to increase trust in the process at all levels among Liberian voters is paramount.    

We have been monitoring elections in the region and I must say the Libetia NEC is proactively taking measures to change the tide of voter doubt, this event, and the launch of the civic and voter education, and other evebts that we have all witnessed serve as examples.

I would like to congratulate all presidential candidates from the bottom of my heart. Liberia is fortunate to have passionate individuals who have stepped forward to run for the highest office in the land. Each candidate represents a unique vision for your country’s future. Some of us have participated in the politics of our countries but we never dreamed that big. We salute you the candidates for this big decision and big commitment you are taking to run for the highest office of the land. God bless you.

Madam Chair,

As campaign officially starts on Saturday, 5 August, we urge political parties and leaders to remember that in the midst of political debates and various interesting  viewpoints, everyone is bound by a common desire – the pursuit of a better tomorrow for your families, friends, and fellow citizens. You must foster an environment where you can engage in meaningful and respectful discussions, challenging each other’s ideas while keeping the ultimate goal of the greater good in mind. So, I urge each of you to conduct issue-based and violence-free campaigns with respect, and most of all, respect the law of the land abide by the principles of the Farmington River Declaration. The Declaration remains the  blueprint to peaceful and credible elections. It is the trademark for peace, inclusivity, a symbol for zero tolerance for violence against women in elections. I know I am preaching to the converted because you signed the declaration and it’s yours. But as a witness I must add these points simply for emphasis.

Let us remember that Liberians are not merely electing an individual but are shaping the direction of their country. It is the responsibility of every citizen to vote with an open heart and a keen mind, considering the long-term implications of their choices. A conducive environment is critical for this to happen.

Madam Chair

The United Nations system believes in the strength of Liberia and the democratic ideals it upholds. We also believe that Liberia’s progress depends not solely on the actions of those who hold office but on the collective spirit of understanding, compassion, and collaboration that each one of you bring which will ensure that the elections are conducted in an atmosphere of peace, inclusivity and transparency. This country has had twenty years of peace and among the most peaceful in the region. We have no doubt that it is in every Liberian’s DNA to keep it as such.

To the presidential candidates who have offered themselves for public service, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your dedication and willingness to serve your nation is commendable. The path you have chosen hold a lot of responsibility. Your  commitment to embrace  the opportunities and challenges that come with it is  admirable.

It is crucial that women become just as involved in this  collective action as men are. We must recognize the crucial role that they play in in the country and hence in elections.  As leading ladies they need a lot support. Empowers  as change-makers they will do great for this nation. I must always emphasize that women form half of the population in Liberia and the country must use all its potential to realize it’s development aspirations. At it’s a matter of mathematics and economics.

In closing, let us embrace the spirit of goodwill and unity as we approach the election and beyond. I implore every candidate and citizen alike to commit to promoting a positive and inclusive dialogue. Let us reject division and embrace the strength that comes from diversity. By doing so, we can truly exemplify the principles upon which this nation was founded. We must all stand together as one nation ONE Liberia.

Thank you for your attention.