The Institute for Research and Democratic Development (IREDD) recently unveiled its 2024 Legislative Performance Monitoring Midterm Scorecard, shedding light on the performance of Liberia’s 55th Legislature. This comprehensive report evaluates the legislators against international standards in areas such as representation, oversight, lawmaking, institutional performance, gender sensitivity, and support for key legislative bodies.
While the report highlights some commendable performances, particularly among certain senators with high attendance records, it also reveals significant shortcomings, especially regarding female lawmakers’ participation and broader issues of legislative inefficiency and gender insensitivity.
Gender Disparity and Legislative Challenges
One of the most troubling findings is the persistent gender disparity in the Legislature. Among the 11 female lawmakers, only eight were assessed, with few receiving top grades for attendance. In the House of Representatives, only three female lawmakers achieved an ‘A’ grade, while a staggering 20 representatives received an ‘F’ for consistent absences. This stark contrast underscores an environment where female legislators face numerous challenges, including limited support, lack of opportunities, and a hostile working environment.
Moreover, the Legislature’s failure to implement the Affirmative Action for Equitable Participation and Representation Act of 2016, aimed at promoting gender equality, is deeply concerning. The report highlights that only 4 out of 103 Chief of Office Staff are women, indicating a severe gender imbalance. This lack of gender sensitivity extends beyond employment practices to the overall legislative environment, which fails to provide the necessary support for women to enhance their strategic communication and legislative influence.
Institutional Inefficiencies
The report also reveals significant institutional deficiencies that hinder the Legislature’s effectiveness. Weak infrastructure, limited capacity, and procedural deficiencies are rampant, preventing effective lawmaking, oversight, and accountability. Many legislators lack the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources, and the Legislature is plagued by outdated equipment and disorganized archives and libraries. These issues make it difficult for lawmakers to access important documents, conduct research, and articulate their positions effectively.
Furthermore, the Legislature’s self-serving focus, prioritizing financial and re-election interests over the development needs of constituents, is evident. Public funds are often allocated in ways that do not address critical issues such as access to safe drinking water, unemployment, and revenue generation. County Service Centers, intended to provide essential services to citizens in outlying areas, are grossly underfunded, further exacerbating the issue.
A Call for Reform
The findings of the IREDD report are a wake-up call for the Liberian Legislature. There is an urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address these issues and promote a more inclusive, accountable, and effective legislative body. Implementing gender-sensitive policies, providing better support and opportunities for female lawmakers, and addressing the institutional deficiencies that hinder effective lawmaking are crucial steps in this process.
Moreover, the Legislature must shift its focus from self-serving interests to the genuine needs of its constituents. This involves ensuring proper allocation of public funds, enhancing oversight mechanisms, and prioritizing critical development issues. Only through such measures can the Legislature restore public trust and fulfill its role as a pillar of democracy in Liberia.
In conclusion, the IREDD report serves as a crucial tool for citizens and stakeholders to understand the Legislature’s effectiveness and identify areas for necessary reform. The Liberian Legislature must heed this call for accountability and gender sensitivity to truly serve the people and uphold the principles of democracy.
