To end post electoral violence in Liberia, a nongovernmental organization, Migrant as Messengers Association of Liberia (MAMAL) has continue its post-election Peace and Reconciliation campaign through sports in Montserrado and Grand Cape Mount counties. Tagged: “Let’s play and keep the peace”
The Post electoral Peace awareness seeks to bring Young Liberians from various political and non-political institutions aimed at informing them about the importance of peace as well as the impact it has on the Liberian society.
Speaking at the event in Monrovia, the Executive Director of MAMAL, Catheryn Kenny said, their goal is to sensitize young Liberians about the danger and risk associated with violence as such, it is necessary that the young people distance themselves from all forms of violence including conflict trigger.
According to Madam Kenny, it is unarguable for every community dwellers and even family members to support the same candidate during elections, something she said normally brings about split or division but said, there must be unity after elections.
The MAMAL Executive Director, Catheryn Kenny stated that elections will come and go but Liberia will remain; as such there’s no reason why Liberians should continue on the path of confusion considering that there will come another election.
“In a world where conflict and division often dominate the headlines, our collective presence here today is a powerful testament to our shared commitment to fostering peace, reconciliation, and cooperation. We have come together from different walks of life, different cultures, and different perspectives, united by a common goal: to build bridges where there have been walls, to create dialogue where there has been silence, and to sow the seeds of peace where there has been discord” MAMAL Executive Director Ms. Kenny asserted.
She noted that there cannot be development in the midst of conflict, noting that development partners will be scared away from the state due to unending conflict day and night.
”As we embark on this journey together, let us remember that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, equity, and respect for all. It is our responsibility, as leaders, activists, and citizens of the world, to work tirelessly toward creating environments where every individual feels valued, heard, and empowered. I encourage you to engage fully in the discussions and activities that actively promote peace and development within our Nation, to listen with open hearts, and to speak with the courage of your convictions” the MAMAL Executive Director noted.
Madam Kenny registered that Liberia has continued to make history by maintaining peace since the 14 years of civil war that damaged the human resource and infrastructure developments of the country but stated that despite the challenges encountered, 21 years of peace has existed.
Madam Catheryn Kenny is quoted as saying, “The path to peace is often challenging, but it is a path worth walking, hand in hand, as we strive to create a brighter, more peaceful future for all. Let’s remain dedicated to this noble cause and together, we will make a difference”.
According to the organization’s Executive Director, the gathering focused on the cause of peace and unity which will help foster development; noting that a country will lack development in the absence of peace thus urging the young people of Liberia to remain peaceful and reconcile all differences that may have occurred during the just ended October 10, 2023 general elections.
Electoral District #8 in Montserrado County was one of the Districts during the 2023 elections that experienced tens political tensions,especially for the acceptance of conceding defeat by the Lawmaker, however, the decision of the electorates prevailed based on official results from the National Elections Commission of Liberia.
The conflict that ensued between supporters of different political leaders has led to what is termed as a silent conflict because there could be a possible outbreak of conflict due to what transpired during the 2023 elections as such; MAMAL through its partners hasseen the need to ensure that peace remains supreme.
For his part, the Program Officer of the Liberia Peace Building Office Mr. Calluchi Beiah used the medium to call on the Youth of Liberia to embrace peace as the Hallmark of achieving development and as well building the capacity of humans. ” Let us allow peace reign in our society void of our political affiliations and religious beliefs once we claimed to be patriotic citizens of Liberia” The peace-building office Representative added.
The post-electoral awareness campaign brought together several youths from the Says town community and the City Hall community through sports encounters and other recreational activities.
