The Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS) is set to host its 52nd General Assembly (GA) on December 18–19, 2024, in Gbarnga, Bong County to elect a new national Governance leadership who will govern the affairs of the Red Cross for the next four years.
The GA through the County governance heads, national youth representative, and the National Executive Board will elect a new national president, three regional vice presidents, a national Treasurer, and heads of various constitutional commissions to guide the institution in fulfilling its humanitarian mandate.
The General Assembly which is the highest decision-making body of the Liberian Red Cross is held every two years for review and approval of reports, plans, and budget but in the fourth year, the General Assembly is focused on electing a new national leadership.
At least 50 delegates including the county governance leadership and the national leadership are expected to attend this General Assembly under the theme: “Enhancing Governance and Leadership for Growth and Sustainable Development.
The Red Cross management team, Election Committee members, and esteemed guests from its movement partners and government institutions will also attend the GA which will set the priorities for the Liberian Red Cross for the coming years.
The two-day event will also review and approve the Liberian Red Cross Annual plan and budget for the next year and review, discuss, and approve the reports of the President, regional vice presidents, the National Treasurer, and the Secretary-General.
The Red Cross 52nd GA follows the successful completion of local leadership elections of the Liberian Red Cross in the 91 branches and 15 chapters. These elections reinforced the organization’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive leadership.
A total of 578 individuals comprising 382 males and 196 females—were elected into various leadership positions at the branch level, including Branch Coordinators, Assistant Coordinators, Treasurers, and Youth Representatives. At the county level, 92 leaders were chosen through a credible secret voting process for key positions, such as Chapter Chairpersons, Vice Chairpersons, Treasurers, and Youth Representatives.
The elections marked significant progress toward achieving gender parity, with women in the Red Cross local leadership comprising 43% of elected positions. The newly elected leaders represent diverse religious backgrounds and include individuals with varying physical challenges, reflecting the LNRCS’s commitment to inclusivity. These leaders are poised to strengthen the organization’s grassroots capacity to deliver humanitarian services.
Mr. Jerome N. J. Clarke II, who has led the Liberian Red Cross National Governance Board for two successive terms, will not seek re-election. This transition presents an opportunity for fresh leadership and innovative perspectives to guide the LNRCS.
The LNRCS invites all stakeholders, partners, and the public to remain engaged and supportive as it continues to uphold its mission of alleviating human suffering with compassion and integrity. The organization’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and accountability remains steadfast as it charts a course for sustainable development and impactful humanitarian action.
