By: Austin S. Fallah-a, a born Liberian and US-based Liberian Professional.
Today, Liberia stands on the precipice of a new dawn, an era marked by a change in leadership, a shift in governance approach, and a fresh directional compass for the country’s socio-political map.
The typical sun of hope rises on the horizon, promising to usher in an epoch of transformative governance for the greater good of all Liberians.
Liberia, as a polity, is no stranger to change. In its complex historical tapestry are woven incidents of political transitions and governance paradigm shifts (International Crisis Group, 2020).
This West African nation has executed remarkable political overhauls, alluding to societal perseverance and resilience. Each restructuring phase has sparked aspirations for a better Liberia, bolstering the spirit of renaissance, reminiscent of an unbroken relay race for progress.
However, it is essential to underline that this new beginning must comprehend and address the endemic corruption crisis.
The endemic financial and moral corruption cripples Liberia’s socio-economic fabric, hampering growth and equality.
The United Nations panel of experts on Liberia concurs, citing corruption as a significant roadblock to Liberia’s development (UNDP, 2007).
The World Bank also corroborates that corruption limits Liberia’s capacity to provide essential services and improve economic conditions.
A transformed Liberia envisions eradicating such corrosive elements from its soil, and the hope lies in the new leadership.
Instituting stringent anti-corruption measures, transparent governance, and an accountable administration could significantly mitigate corruption levels. Similarly, fostering a culture of morality, responsibility, and integrity within the governing systems and citizenry can counter moral decay.
The robust social and economic development of all Liberians hinges on these actions. Decreasing corruption can give rise to improved public services and an equitable distribution of resources, thereby strengthening the social regress.
Also, by purchasing or employing Diversity as the New World Currency, it will engage citizens of diverse educational, technical, cultural, social, and economic backgrounds for the nation’s growth and the common good.
This links to inclusive economic development as more sustainable opportunities are created, attracting diversified groups into the economic fold.
That said, the new leadership must not work in isolated silos.
It must manifest an inclusive approach, embracing all Liberians’ aspirations, idiosyncrasies, and dreams in the nation-building process.
The citizens also have a crucial role to play – to remain metacognitive of their values, rights, and responsibilities. Indeed, it’s a collective goal and effort towards a new Liberia.
The prospect of a fresh Liberia gives rise to renewed hopes for carving a prosperous societal and economic landscape.
It necessarily calls for the coming together of a brand-new mindset that values growth, openness, transparency, effective governance, and, ultimately, a commitment to national prosperity.
More than ever, Liberia cries out for leadership that will effectively harness her potential and steer her toward a promising future.
I also wish all the best for a brand-new Liberia and a brand-new mindset for the greater good.
May this new beginning bring about the long-awaited transformation that Liberia truly deserves.
