LIBERIA, A COUNTRY that has experienced a devastating civil war in the past, is currently facing the alarming threat of another conflict. Political actors, through their actions and rhetoric, have raised concerns about the potential for instability.
THIS IS BECAUSE of electoral insecurity, as they hold the belief that the ruling establishment is doing all it can to ensure that the pending presidential election is rigged. This is also backed by their ideology that the masses are resolved to elect them.
FOR US, WE believe it (Threat) is the wrong way of doing the right thing, as it carries dozens of consequences. Not just that, Itwould also have a negative impact on the country’s people, economy, and regional stability.
ONE OF THE most immediate and devastating consequences of another war in Liberia would be the humanitarian crisis that would unfold. The civilian population, already vulnerable due to poverty and limited access to basic services, would bear the brunt of the conflict.
DISPLACEMENT, LOSS OF life, and the destruction of infrastructure would exacerbate the suffering of the already marginalized population.
LIBERIA’S ECONOMY- WHICH has made significant strides towards recovery since the end of the civil war in 2003, would face a severe setback in the event of another conflict. Investments, both domestic and foreign, would likely plummet, leading to job losses and a decline in economic growth. This would further exacerbate poverty and hinder the country’s development.
MOREOVER, WE BELIEVE that over the years- Liberia has made significant progress in terms of political stability, democratic governance, and peacebuilding efforts. As such, any act of beating war drum should be resisted and discouraged.
ANOTHER WAR WOULD not only reverse Liberia’s manyachievements but also undermine the trust and confidence that has been built among the Liberian people. It would take years, if not decades, to rebuild the shattered social fabric and restore faith in the country’s institutions.
THE CONSEQUENCES OF another war in Liberia would not be limited to its borders. The potential for regional instability is a significant concern. Liberia shares borders with Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Ivory Coast, countries that have also experienced their fair share of conflicts. A resurgence of violence in Liberia could spill over into neighboring nations, leading to a destabilization of the entire region.
THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY, which has invested heavily in Liberia’s stability and development, would also face repercussions. The burden of responding to a humanitarian crisis and managing a potential regional conflict would fall on neighboring countries and international organizations.
THE STRAIN ON resources and the diversion of attention from other global challenges would have far-reaching consequences.
IN CONCLUSION, WE are completely against recent threats by political actors, and we believe that the threats of instability posed by political actors in Liberia should not be taken lightly.
WE BELIEVE THAT another war in Liberia would have dire consequences for the country’s people, economy, and regional stability. The potential humanitarian crisis, economic downturn, reversal of progress, and international repercussions would be devastating and hinder Liberia’s path towards sustainable peace and development.
THEREFORE, IT IS crucial for all Liberians, stakeholders, both domestic and international, to work together to prevent the escalation of tensions and promote peaceful dialogue and reconciliation in Liberia.
