-Female presidential and vp candidates talk through their manifestos
By Jerromie S. Walters
Women’s political participation is of paramount importance for the advancement of democracy and the achievement of gender equality. Historically, women have been underrepresented in political decision-making processes, hindering their ability to shape policies that directly affect their lives. As established so far, two female presidential candidates and seven vice presidential candidates will participate in the October 10, 2023, presidential and legislative elections.
Considering the involvement of these women and the criticalfact that women’s political participation is crucial in promoting democratic governance, fostering inclusive policies, and addressing gender disparities, we grew curiosity in gagging their positions on several issues affecting Liberians, in a bid to give Liberians a clearer picture to critique and make the best decision comes Tuesday, October 10, 2023.
At the level of the presidency, Madam Bendu Kromah and Sara Nyanti Beysolow are amongst scores of men who are seeking to unseat President George Weah and deliver to Liberians what they have long yielded for.
In this quest, Madam Bendu Kromah, an independent presidential candidate says if she ascends to the presidency- her administration priorities are Infrastructure Development (example: improve current roads, bridges, buildings hospitals equipped with x-ray machines, lab equipment as it pertains to foreign policy draw from the strength of Liberia being a Maritime Nation-making sure the revenue generated goes in government accounts.
She holds strong interest in strengthening Liberia’s relations with its allies especially US. Upon ascending to the presidency, she has committed herself to making sure that Liberia’s contract as a mining nation and suppliers of industrial minerals is adhere to.
“Oceanic front and world law of the sea reviewed Pursuing peace and good relations among our neighbors from the south, north east and west essential for economic growth and development to take place.”
According to her, this can be achieved by being active in the regional consultative forums and heads of government. With specific emphasis on her team’s interest in women, MadamBendu Kromah says women must be trained from high school to take on leadership roles, workshops on sexual orientation, violence.
“Incentives for inclusivity and education of our girls. Education for women with disabilities. Wheelchair ramps at all buildings. Rehab centers for women facing drug issues.”
More to the above, the young female presidential candidate is skeptical about ensuring that Liberia’s borders are secured, through- land air and sea. “Train dogs to detect drugs packages (K-9 dogs)
Strengthen our judicial system, by hiring more judges and paying on time.”
To address the vulnerability of young Liberian students, she has seen logic in Imposing curfews for students, while her government will also mandate compulsory education. “Empower our young girls – to include job training Extra curriculum activities …keeps our girls busy.”
Madam Bendu Kromah was born in Gbarnga, Bong County. Her parents hail from Grand Cape Mount County. Over the years, she has worked as Executive Director of Alumni Affairs,State of California, Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs,RL, 1979 OAU summit and several years as a volunteer for the USA Track and Field in California.
She holds a BSC degree in Economics with a minor in Mathematics from University of Liberia, MBA from Morgan and additional courses from UCLA extension.
She authored a book title Workers Compensation Cost minimization, A policy perspective.
Like Madam Bendu Kromah, Madam Sara Nyanti Beysolowwho’s the standard bearer of the African Liberation League (ALL) and one of the two female presidential candidates, holds fervent interest in liberating Liberia.
Following the climax of her days at United Nations (UN), and upon disclosing her political interest, Madam Sara NyantiBeysolow informed Liberians that she will focus on providing basic social services for Liberians when elected as President of Liberia.
But in her opinion, lifting Africa’s oldest republic out of poverty will require the help of all Liberians home and abroad and not just the president of the country as she assured her supporters that she will be committed to reducing poverty in Liberia.
In an interview with this paper Thursday, October 5, 2023, Madam Sara Nyanti Beysolow says her administration’s priorities will be subsets of her two strategic thrusts of nation building and poverty reduction. “I fully recognize that Liberia faces a myriad of complex challenges that necessitate careful and gradual changes. My administration’s priorities will be subsets of our two strategic thrusts of nation building and poverty reduction. Nation building refers to the need to prioritize the unity, healing, and reconciliation of our people. If we do not acknowledge and start to address our painful past and address the boiling pot of divisions, tribalism and anger including unresolved issues of our transitional justice process, Liberia cannot move forward. Poverty reduction of course is related to lifting our people out of the abject poverty that exists today.”
According to her, The safety and security of all Liberians is paramount; and enforcing the primacy of the rule of law and ensuring that corruption is addressed timely from day one of heradministration- will be critical. “Liberia has been running on autopilot for quite some time with people behaving in dangerous and sometimes unlawful ways with impunity. This must stop and the fast-track corruption court which we are committed to establish within 100 days of office will be key for a paradigm shift. Drug trafficking is rife and the traffickers are often not found, and when they are, they are often not held accountable. We intend to ensure that these issues are addressed with incentive-based approaches to whistleblowing, capacity building and enforcement of the drug law.”
She believes that Liberians must have access to quality healthcare and universal basic healthcare is the right step forward. Mental health and rehabilitation cannot be ignored, and these will be prioritized along with strengthening the national drug regulatory body to mitigate the importation of fake drugs. “Quality education will be strengthened by bringing back retired teachers and education experts who still want to serve. Liberia’s economy must be diversified to reduce dependency on an export of raw materials. We will implement policies to attract investment, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and promote entrepreneurship.”
As stated by Madam Sara Nyanti Beysolow- addressing Liberia’s infrastructure deficit is another key priority. “We will embark on a comprehensive infrastructure development program to enhance connectivity, from roads and bridges to energy and telecommunications.”
“Women and youth empowerment as well as social protection programs for the most vulnerable are key to our priority of labor and empowerment. We intend to ensure that women and youth have access to funds, are prioritized in doing business with government and that youth have pathways to skills building through the formal and informal education systems with our planned National Youth Service Scheme and the revamped technical and vocational training. I intend to ensure that we are ready to face any future public health and national emergencies with a high-level coordination mechanism that will lead a multi-sectoral approach to addressing future pandemics and related issues.”
She further states- “Importantly, my administration will prioritize diplomacy and regional cooperation. Liberia’s role in promoting peace and stability in the West African region is vital, and we will actively engage with our neighbors to address regional challenges, including security. I understand the need for gradual change, but I am committed to taking decisive steps to address these issues while fostering national unity and reconciliation. Together, with the support of the Liberian people, we can build a brighter future for our country.”
Conspicuously, she says addressing gender issues is a crucial priority for her presidency in Liberia. “I intend to take a comprehensive approach that promotes gender equality and empowers women across all sectors of society. The new narrative I bring to the table is one of unwavering commitment to gender equality as a foundation for national development. I believe that by empowering women and ensuring their full participation in all aspects of society, we can unlock the potential of our nation and build a more just and prosperous Liberia where every citizen, regardless of gender, can thrive.”
With this, she says her administration will ensure 50% women’s participation in leadership at the cabinet level and will work incrementally over the 6-year period to implement this at all levels of government leadership.
“Our planned Women’s Enterprise Fund will ensure that women have access to resources for establishing or growing their medium and small-scale enterprises. We intend to ensure that for contracts up to $1m, women led companies and organizations will be prioritized alongside youth-led entities and those of the disabled. Addressing gender-based violence is paramount. We’ll strengthen laws and support mechanisms to combat violence against women, including domestic violence and sexual harassment. We’ll also provide safe spaces and support for survivors.”
Moreover, she tells this paper that under her leadership, addressing issues affecting persons, especially women, with disabilities will be a top priority.” Our administration will collaborate with disability advocacy groups and organizations to ensure that the voices and needs of persons with disabilities are at the forefront of our policies and initiatives. Our social protection program will be established to ensure that cash is provided for the most vulnerable incrementally targeting that at least 50% of the most disadvantaged including the disabled, should be reached by 2027. As it relates to drugs, the program is for all and is articulated below.”
Elaborating on her administration’s commitment toward combating drug in Liberia, Madam Sara Nyanti Beysolow says ensuring the full implementation of drug laws in Liberia is crucial for the well-being and safety of our citizens. “If I am elected president, I am committed to taking the following steps to achieve this: Strengthening Law Enforcement: We will enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies, providing them with the necessary resources, training, and technology to effectively combat drug trafficking and distribution. This includes better intelligence gathering and interagency cooperation. Public Awareness and Education: Prevention is key. We will launch comprehensive public awareness campaigns to educate our citizens, especially our youth, about the dangers of drug abuse and the legal consequences. We’ll collaborate with schools and community organizations to promote drug-free lifestyles.”
More to her interventions, she mentions, “Rehabilitation and Treatment: We recognize that addiction is a complex issue. We’ll invest in rehabilitation and treatment centers to provide support for individuals struggling with substance abuse, emphasizing a compassionate and health-centered approach. Community Engagement: Drug issues often have deep roots in communities. We will engage with local communities, leaders, and organizations to address the social and economic factors that contribute to drug-related problems. This includes job creation and support for at-risk populations. International Cooperation: Drug trafficking is often transnational. We’ll collaborate with international partners and organizations to strengthen our efforts against drug cartels and networks that operate across borders.”
“Review and Reform: We will conduct a comprehensive review of existing drug laws to ensure they are fair, just, and aligned with international best practices. If needed, we will work with the legislature to reform these laws to better address the evolving drug landscape. Accountability and Transparency: Transparency and accountability are essential in the fight against drug-related corruption. We will establish mechanisms to monitor and hold accountable those involved in drug enforcement and judicial processes to prevent abuses of power. Community Policing: We will promote community policing approaches that build trust between law enforcement and communities. This will encourage citizens to cooperate with authorities in reporting drug-related activities. Support for Law Enforcement Personnel: Law enforcement personnel who are dedicated to combating drug-related crimes will receive the support they need, including fair compensation and access to mental health services to cope with the challenges they face. Cross-Sector Collaboration: We’ll engage multiple stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, social workers, educators, and civil society organizations, to create a holistic approach to addressing drug-related issues. My administration will be unwavering in its commitment to tackling drug-related problems in Liberia. We will prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens while upholding the rule of law and respecting human rights throughout the implementation of drug laws.”
At the same time, she expressed dismay about the recent wave of underage prostitution in Liberia. “The recent reports of underage prostitution in Liberia are deeply troubling and require urgent attention. To address this issue and minimize its occurrence, my administration will take a multi-faceted approach: Victim Support and Rehabilitation: We recognize that many young individuals engaged in prostitution are victims. We will establish dedicated support and rehabilitation programs to provide them with access to counseling, medical care, and educational opportunities, enabling them to escape this cycle.”
“Public Awareness: Raising awareness is essential. We will launch public awareness campaigns to inform citizens, families, and communities about the dangers of underage prostitution. These campaigns will emphasize the importance of reportingsuch cases to the authorities. Access to Education: Ensuring access to quality education is critical. We will work to expand educational opportunities for vulnerable youth, addressing the root causes that lead them into prostitution, including poverty and lack of educational access. Economic Empowerment: We will implement programs aimed at providing economic opportunities for families in impoverished communities. This will help alleviate the economic pressures that can drive young individuals into prostitution.”
She adds, “Community Engagement: We will engage with local communities and leaders to create a supportive environment that actively opposes underage prostitution. This includes fostering cooperation with community-based organizations and religious institutions. Strengthening Social Services: Our administration will invest in strengthening social services, including child protection agencies, to ensure they are equipped to respond effectively to cases of underage prostitution. Legislation and Policy: We will review and strengthen existing legislation related to child protection and the prevention of child exploitation. This may include imposing stricter penalties for those who exploit minors. Cross-Sector Collaboration: We recognize that addressing underage prostitution requires collaboration across multiple sectors, including law enforcement, social services, healthcare, and education. We will encourage and facilitate cooperation among these sectors. International Partnerships: We will seek assistance and support from international organizations and partners with expertise in combating child exploitation and trafficking. She says minimizing underage prostitution in Liberia is a complex challenge, but it is one that they are committed to tackling head-on. “Together with the community, civil society, and international partners, we can work towards creating a safer and more prosperous future for our nation’s youth.”
Furthermore, Madam Sara Nyanti Beysolow believes Liberians should expect a compassionate but firm leader with a strong results-based management approach who will put systems in place to serve all Liberians. According to her, accountability will be key and all political appointees and civil servants will work in a performance management system that will ensure that results are achieved for the people they are there to serve.
“Liberians can expect a fresh and innovative approach from my administration, particularly in our commitment to building sustainable systems aimed at ending poverty. While we respect the efforts of past leaders, we recognize the need for new strategies and a renewed focus on addressing the root causes of poverty in Liberia. Here are some key aspects of what Liberians can expect: You can expect a values-based approach that will be centered around meritocracy, justice, fairness, equity, equality, and inclusion, especially for the marginalized and disabled.”
Amid the recent reports of electoral violence, Madam Sara Nyanti Beysolow urges, “Certainly, there is one crucial aspect that I would like to emphasize, and that is the importance of unity and national reconciliation in Liberia. Our nation has a history marked by periods of division and conflict, and it is imperative that we work together to heal old wounds and build a united and harmonious Liberia.”
Under her leadership, she says fostering national unity will be a top priority. We will encourage dialogue, inclusivity, and reconciliation among all Liberians, regardless of their backgrounds or political affiliations. This includes reaching out to all stakeholders, including opposition parties, civil society, and the diaspora, to collectively address our challenges and chart a path toward a brighter future.
“In addition to the pressing issues we’ve discussed, our administration will tirelessly work to bridge divides, strengthen social cohesion, and build a Liberia where every citizen feels valued and heard. Liberians must feel that this is their Liberia and each of us should aspire to ensure that all Liberians can find prosperity right here. We can overcome any obstacle and achieve our shared aspirations for a prosperous and peaceful nation if we all agree that now is the time.”
Sara Beysolow Nyanti’s endeavors at the United Nations began when she was secured her from the Ministry of Health where she headed the National AIDS Control Program in Monrovia at the level of program director in 2003. She wrote the first Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM) proposal for Liberia. Two years later, Beysolow Nyanti went international and at said level- she served as the GFATM ProgrammeManager in Nepal. Over the last 22 years, Beysolow Nyantirubbed shoulders with individuals of global backgrounds through several promotions, ranging from high-profile positions in conflict-and post-conflict countries: UN Resident Coordinator in Nepal (2021); United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative in Yemen (2019-2020); and in the Gambia (2015-2017).
Intrinsically, both Sara Beysolow Nyanti and Bendu Kromahare among scores of other women in the current political struggle, as Madam Annie Tuazama, Noosevett Weah, Cllr. Charlyne Brumskine, Grace Yuan Yancy, Celia Brown Cuffy, Jewel Howard-Taylor and Grace-Tee Kpaan are relentingly seeking the vice presidency.
Madam Annie Tuazama is the vice presidential candidate of the Democratic People’s Party of Liberia (DPPL). She’s contesting along with Rev. David GB Kiamu who’s the party’s presidential candidate. She has been in politic for over 8 years, and she hold the ideology that a new Liberia can only be achieved if urgent attention is given to key issues affecting Liberians.
Throughout her years in politics, she has worked with the Alternative National Congress (ANC) and other women groups.
“We need attention for our country,” Madam Tuazama told Womenvoices- as she elaborated on her team’s manifesto. With a huge interest in transforming the lives of at-risk youth and creating a safe space for women and girls, Madam Tuazama says her team is interest in improving the agriculture, health, education, and other major sector.
“Liberia is at war because of the drug, Liberians are hungry. “It requires serious discussion and awareness, and not just getting the money and not using it wisely.” She believes the fight to end drug is difficult, but can obviously be curb with commitment. “You should have started making farms and recruiting young boys and girls.”
In her opinion, the fight to end drug in Liberia starts with President. Also, she described the recent wave of underage prostitution in Liberia as a “National problem” that requires more awareness. With, she says the government must create more awareness and assert meaningful efforts impact to address drugs, underage prostitution and other issues affecting the women and young people of Liberia.
Over the years, she has consistently engaged state actors regarding the spread of drugs and it literary yield fruit. This was also demonstrated in 2018, she drafted a plan to combat drug and crimes in Paynesville and Liberia in general. She commenced her goodwill endeavors in 2004, when she spare-headed a program for at-risk youths. She trained young people in catering and major vocational skills.
“I had to go to the ghettos, I had tong onto the slums communities.” All along her days aiding young people, she held the belief that she had a responsibility which she needed to be committed to. The innovative Liberian woman is one among several other women who struggled her way through high school, considering financial constrain, and several other challenges her parents confronted- is seeking to uphold the vice presidential seat of the Republic of Liberia.
In addition to few of the many astute Liberian women that have embraced the courage to participate in this year’s electoral process, Cllr. Charlyne Brumskine- a daughter of Grand Bassa County is contesting at the level of the vice presidency, on the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP).
The young, vibrant, and well disciplined female lawyer and politician in Cllr. Charlyne Brumskine, is walking steadily with the Standard bearer of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), Alexander B. Cummings, who’s also the Political Leader of the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP).
As the presidential election remains critical for Liberians, having a female lawyer like Cllr. Brumskine running for the Vice presidency, has what it takes to increase the representation of women in politics. It provides an opportunity for women to see themselves reflected in leadership positions and encourages more women to become politically engaged.
A female lawyer like Cllr. Charlyne Brumskine running as vice president can bring attention to issues of gender equality and advocate for policies that promote equal rights and opportunities for women, considering that her legal expertise is unmatched, having founded and managed the rapidly growing CMB Law Group in Liberia for 20 years.
Undoubtedly, this has a lot in package for Liberians, as this is the kind of leader the state needs, and with the fact that she holds a Juris Doctor degree from Howard University School of Law in Washington D.C. and a Bachelor of Art degree in Political Science from Barnard College in New York.
Not just with this, her involvement in these processes can help to advance the cause of gender equality in society as a whole.
With the presence of Cllr. Brumskine, she has displayed herself as one that brings a unique perspective to the vice presidential race.
It’s a proven fact women often have different life experiences and priorities compared to their male counterparts, and having a female lawyer in the race can bring attention to issues that are particularly important to women, such as reproductive rights, healthcare, and work-life balanced.
Cllr. Brumskine running for the Vice Presidency doesn’t only heighten women political participation, but serves as a role model for young girls and women, showing them that they can aspire to any position they choose, including the second highest office in the land. This can inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in law, politics, or other leadership roles.
Moreover to uniqueness of her presence in the race, Cllr. Brumskine involvement in the general elections is in an effort to break stereotypes: By running for Vice president, a female lawyer like Charlyne challenges traditional gender stereotypes and demonstrates that women are capable of holding positions of power and leadership. Unarguably, this can help to break down barriers and change societal perceptions about women’s capabilities.
Overall, the significance of a female lawyer in a presidential election lies in the potential to advance gender equality, provide representation, bring unique perspectives, serve as a role model, and challenge stereotypes.
Like any other presidential and vice presidential candidatei, the Standard Bearer of the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP) Mr. Alexander B. Cummings and his running mate also have an intrinsic plans to transform the lives of Liberians.
The Cummings -Brumskine conglomeration guaranteed that the CPP will ensure quality and affordable education, and work towards providing free public education. Our primary focus will be on youth and adult education, especially vocational training to put Liberian’s first in line for new jobs.
The Collaborating Political Parties CPP’s short-term focus will provide access to free, quality national primary education, as well as a streamlined vocational educational system aligned with current private sector needs.
It considers construction, information technology, services, tourism, and manufacturing. Long term, we will reform higher education in Liberia by focusing on teachers’ training, innovate in education delivery and strengthen a Liberia’s network of colleges and universities.
“We will apologize to no one for enabling and prioritizing Liberian success at home. This will include from business to sports, music, movie and other forms of arts. If you have the dream and the drive, the Cummings-Brumskine-led government will help you thrive,” They assures.
Madam Cecelia Brown Cuffy, the vice presidential candidate of Mr. Robert F. Morris says their administration will create no room for corruption. “I battled or played a significant role at the NPA & other public sectors. We will not be corrupt, when president shame people like the finance minister and not entertain lies, people will be straight, the country will do better.”
Like several other potential and experienced Liberian woman, Madam Cecelia Brown Cuffy has worked in diverse capacities at different institutions, including- the National Port Authority (NPA), Liberia Maritime, and the National Housing Authority (NHA). The female vice presidential candidate who’s schooled about the workings of the vice presidency, says she’s well equipped to execute every task attached to the position.
“Vice president plays an important dual role, VP attends cabinet meetings and play a vital role in the senate as well, so when God is bringing you to a position, you must be trained and I am trained to do the work. It is a calling from God and a position ofservice ,” Madam Cuffy Brown said while in an exclusive interview with our publisher.
She continued, “The research is left with the Liberian people. I worked in many places like the NPA, maritime, NHA, and my hand-marks are there, they are part of the good public works I did.” When quizzed about her position on the survivability of persons with disabilities, she said- “They are part of the country and that will be my personal platform. zogos and those disabilities have money in the budget to be taking care of.”
Commenting on the recent wave of underage prostitution in the country, Madam Brown said: “The country itself has become a PROSTITUTE.”
According to her, “The political actors are the cheap prostitutes’ the people who supposed to implement are the cheap prostitutes, the ones that are in power are the very cheap prostitutes. Leadership is not academic, it is a wisdom from God, kick those prostitutes out!” She said.
She further questioned, “How many children you saw in those days of our time? Even though I don’t know your age (publisher Helen) but now, you can see those big ones in government can’t stop prostitution. Let’s try to kick those big actors out first, the teenagers in those acts will listen and correct themselves when reading grownups in government put themselves together working for the country sincerely. I had opportunity to travel to the America way back, and I better myself there, it was not my parents that showed me the way, I did that by myself because I had a free thinking mind and environment.”
At the same time, Madam Cecelia Brown Cuffy assured her administration’s commitment to protect the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure that they are prioritize.
“Disables are given the chance to work in the USA, because everyone belong to a particular country. We are very selfish in this country. How can we have a rich soil and be poor? Foreigners have taken over in our soil and economy. The Indians parboil rice is hugely taken resources from us Liberia.. ouragriculture sector is weak below the belts.. we should have national farmers day where we can exchange goods and services,” she said.
She further encouraged the need for ethical and professional journalism by the Liberian media. “The newspapers should beable to write good reporting stories that will trickle down the effects of the Liberian people.”
Like Madam Cuffy Brown, Madam Grace Yuan Yancy is contesting as Vice President along with her political leader Rev. Alexander N. Kollie. They both are contesting on the Reformers National Congress government (RNC).
As revealed by their manifesto, the Reformers National Congress government (RNC) if ascended to national leadership, will focus on Ethical Leadership. Says the party’s manifesto would emphasize the importance of leaders with strong moral character, integrity, and a commitment to serving the people selflessly.
Second on their manifesto is Spiritual and Moral Values. The RNC says it will prioritize promoting and upholding spiritual and moral values in society. “This will involve advocating for policies that foster compassion, justice, honesty, and respect for human dignity.”
Third among several others is Social Justice: The RNC confirms that will focus on addressing inequality and striving for social justice. “This will include policies aimed at reducing poverty, supporting vulnerable communities, and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens.”
The RNC fourth priority is Family and Community. “Recognizing the significance of families and communities, The RNC will prioritize initiatives that strengthen and support these foundational units of society. This will involve measures such as affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and quality education.”
Sixth on RNC’s manifesto is Environmental Stewardship. They say RNC government will emphasize the responsibility to be good stewards of the environment. This will include policies promoting sustainability, renewable energy, conservation efforts, and responsible resource management.
“6. Peace and Diplomacy: Prioritizing peaceful resolutions and diplomacy, The RNC will advocate for non-violent approaches to conflict resolution and promote initiatives that foster global cooperation, understanding, and harmony.”
Madam Grace Yuan Yancy’s RNC sixth priority will be Education and Empowerment. “Recognizing the transformative power of education, The RNC will also prioritize accessible and high-quality education systems that provide opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and empowerment.”
More to the women listed above, Madam Noosevett Weah is contesting on the Liberia Restoration Party (LRP) ticket as Vice presidential candidate to Mr. Allen R. Brown Jr.
Together, they both have committed themselves to improving the lives of young people, and ensure that they are integrated l in different sectors and industries in Liberia.
Weah and Brown say if they are elected, they will capitalize on the youths, monitor them, and let them set the Liberian economy ablaze.
Technically, Brown and Weah say it is their creative, innovative, and unconventional dimension of leadership that will propel Liberia to a special place in the world.
They have guaranteed to develop Liberians human capital in a way that is positive and unimaginable, then unleash the people to transform Liberia.
Madam Noosevett Weah has held several high positions including Head of Internal Communication at Orange Liberia.
Like Weah and Brown, Madam Jewel Howard Taylor- Liberia’s current Vice President and the vice presidential candidate of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC)- is one of the many Liberian politicians that are noted for their commitment to women and youth empowerment, support and strengthening women political participation.
Amid these involvements, she has attributed her unwavering commitment to women empowerment and personal development- to her desire to build a new nation, where young people (especially women) can live their dreams and be seen as positive role models.
Obviously, this is one of the countless top issues on the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) pro-poor agenda for prosperity and development.
“We are building a new nation and all of these building blocks, I may not see it, but I know that each of you can now be positive role models in your families and in your communities.”
As an individual with a struggling beginning, the Vice President says the genesis of her life has been her greatest motivator. “My circumstances cannot define me, but the inspiration of my parents and my siblings have been the fire that have few my trajectory throughout my life.”
Madam Taylor is seeking her reelection along with President George Weah- as they both were elected in 2017.
Accordingly, Madam Grace-Tee Kpaan- the vice presidential candidate of Dr. Clarence K. Moniba is one of the few women at the level of the vice Presidential race. They are contesting on the Liberia National Union (LINU) ticket.
The female Vice Standard-bearer of LINU says she will work in line with the party’s manifestos and share mutual respect with the President who is the driving force behind their vision for transformation.
Madam Grace-Tee Kpaan who’s the former Montserrado County Superintendent- revealed that the LINU administration will focus on providing the young people of Liberia with sound and quality education, improving food security, health, road connectivity, and accountability.
According to her, issue of licit drugs which is destroying the youthful generation will be a major concern under their leadership. She says the Moniba-Kpaan administration will have no area for corruption stressing that the public resources will be used for the growth and development of the country. The vice standard-bearer of the opposition Liberia National Union Madam Grace Kpaan sees the October 10 general election as a time for Liberians to rethink and look towards a new direction that will shift the country future positively. She believes that for too long have suffered because they have always looked in the direction that has brought hard time upon them.
Madam Grace Kpaan who spoke to the womenvoices newspaper on Thursday, October 5, 2023, states that Liberia under the Moniba-Kpaan administration, the perception of the vice presidency will change because she will fully implement the constitutional duty of the vice presidency. “Under our administration the perception that Liberians have about the vice presidency that the vice presidency is a dormant position will change. I will fully implement my responsibility given me by the Liberian constitution by ably assisting the president with the day to day administrative duties,” Madam Kpan said
She further stated that her vision for the vice presidency is to help transform lives especially women and girls living with disabilities. She adds that people living with disabilities can be an access to society when they are empowered with formal education and vocational education. Madam Kpaan also asserts that for too long people living with disabilities have seen the dreams and aspirations come to an end because government have not been providing the opportunity that will transform the lives of those living with disabilities, but have been giving them handout only to survive for a day.
“As vice president, I am an assistant to the president so I will talk to the president for the establishment of a specialized school for people living with disabilities. When these people are empowered, they can be a huge access to society because they will enter different professional sectors that will help boost the country economy.” LINU vice standard Bearer added.
In furtherance, she said that the stance of the office of the president on drugs and nicotinic substances that are destroying the youths who are the future, will be to encourage a non-billable charge against drugs smugglers. “For those that are smuggling drugs and damaging the youths who are our future leader, when they are caught they will have to spend the rest of the lives in jail. Because we can not afford to see children who are to make their parents proud and take care of them when they are old, languished in a deplorable condition where they become no use to their parents and society.” Madam Kpaan stated
In conclusion, she admonished Liberians to remain peaceful during the times of elections and vote for the Liberia National Union on October 10, stating that the Moniba-Kpanadministration is going to build a legacy that generations to come will be proud of being a Liberian.
As these women await the outcomes of Tuesday’s polls, voters must remain schooled about the multiplicity of significance women’s political participation is attacked with. As a usual fact, women’s political participation ensures diverse perspectives and experiences are brought to the decision-making table. They often prioritize issues such as education, healthcare, gender-based violence, and women’s rights, which may be overlooked or marginalized in male-dominated political spaces. Increased representation of women in politics leads to more inclusive policies that address the needs and concerns of all citizens.
Women’s political participation also has what it takes to strengthen the foundations of democracy. It promotes legitimacy, accountability, and transparency in governance by broadening the representation of different social groups. When women have an equal voice in political processes, it fosters a more robust and inclusive democracy, ensuring that policies reflect the interests and aspirations of the entire population.
As commonly known, women’s political participation is crucial for advancing gender equality and women’s rights. It allows women to advocate for policies that address discrimination, violence, and economic disparities. Through their participation, women can challenge patriarchal norms and advocate for laws and policies that protect and promote gender equality in areas such as education, employment, reproductive rights, and access to justice.
Interestingly, women’s political participation serves as a powerful source of inspiration and empowerment for future generations. When women hold political office or occupy leadership positions, they become role models, breaking down gender stereotypes and encouraging other women and girls to aspire to leadership roles. Women’s political participation also provides opportunities for skill-building, networking, and mentorship, empowering women to engage in public life and contribute to their communities.
Most of all, women’s political participation is not only a matter of justice and equality but also a fundamental requirement for the advancement of democracy and the achievement of gender equality. By increasing women’s representation in political decision-making processes, societies can ensure that policies and laws reflect the diverse needs and perspectives of all citizens. Women’s political participation is a catalyst for social change, empowering women, and creating more inclusive and equitable societies. It is imperative that governments, political parties, and civil society organizations continue to promote and support women’s active engagement in politics to build a better future for all.
