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Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Liberia: STAND Prepares for a Milestone Event Amid Growing Concerns over Democratic Governance in Liberia

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By Sir-George S Tengbeh

STAND – A Short Intro?
Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND) is a prominent civil society organization in Liberia focused on advocating for justice, accountability, and transparency in governance.

The group has been particularly vocal in addressing issues such as corruption, democratic backsliding, and economic challenges.

STAND has consistently pushed for reforms, recently calling for investigations into allegations of budget tampering within the government and mobilizing efforts for strengthening Liberia’s fire services in response to increasing fire outbreaks.

Their work reflects the broader concerns of Liberian citizens about governance, public safety, and the need for international support in critical areas​.

The movement (STAND) have positions itself as a grassroots voice for the people, committed to ensuring that Liberia’s leaders remain accountable and that essential services are adequately funded and managed.

Their advocacy spans a wide range of social, political, and economic issues, aiming to contribute to a more stable and democratic Liberia.

Wrapping Up a Successful Pre-Nat’l Headquarters Launch Meeting

The Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND) is gearing up for what promises to be a historic moment in Liberia’s civil society landscape. With the official opening of the organization’s national headquarters set for Friday, October 25th, 2024, STAND is sending a strong message about the importance of grassroots advocacy in a time when many believe democratic governance in Liberia is being undermined.

The opening of STAND’s Nat’l headquarters means the organization is open for engagement throughout the 15 counties of Liberia.

STAND recently concluded a critical preparatory meeting ahead of the official launch, gathering key leaders and members from across Liberia. The meeting was a resounding success, with attendees discussing the importance of Friday’s event and finalizing plans to ensure smooth execution.

Gratitude was expressed to everyone who participated, with special recognition going to those who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this day a reality.

One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the call for increased mobilization efforts from district and group leaders. As the official launch day approaches, all leaders have been urged to leave no stone unturned in ensuring their members are fully prepared to participate.

The significance of this mobilization cannot be overstated, as it demonstrates STAND’s strength and unity as a grassroots movement.

In a time of worsening democratic governance in Liberia, STAND’s emergence has been seen by many as a beacon of hope.

The organization represents a collective demand for change, a demand that the needs of ordinary citizens long ignored will finally take priority. As Friday’s event draws near, STAND has called on its leaders and members to rally and show up in force, with a clear directive to lock down the headquarters before 12:00 PM.

As worded through a quote, the national chairman of STAND, Mr. Mulbah K Morlu Jr. emphasis the need for all districts and committee’s leaders to go all out spreading the message “We are urging all group leaders to go the extra mile and ensure their teams are fully mobilized for Friday’s event. This is a critical moment in our movement, and we need everyone to show up and stand together’.

The movement is also preparing symbolic elements, such as Lappas and T-Shirts, which will be distributed to group members for the event. These items not only unify the movement but also serve as a visible reminder of the group’s fight for justice and accountability.

For many members, these symbols represent far more than just clothing. They are a symbol of the struggles and aspirations of people who demand better governance.

STAND’s National Headquarters Launch amidst Liberia’s Democratic Decline

The timing of STAND’s national headquarters launch comes as Liberia faces increasing challenges in its governance structures. The country’s political climate has been marked by accusations of corruption, mismanagement, and erosion of democratic norms.

According to reports from various civil society organizations, including those published by STAND itself, Liberia’s government has failed to meet the expectations of the people, leaving many feelings disenfranchised and marginalized.

In a recent op-ed published by STAND, the organization criticized the Civil Service Agency for unlawfully dismissing civil servants and undermining democratic governance. “These actions are counterproductive to the very foundations of democracy in Liberia,” STAND wrote. “We must rise above partisan interests and stand for what is right an objective, nationalistic approach to governance.” This sentiment is echoed by ordinary citizens across the country.

Many feel that the current administration has prioritized self-serving political interests over the needs of the people, further deepening the socioeconomic divide and exacerbating public discontent.

The October 25th event will serve as a platform to amplify these concerns and push for meaningful change.

STAND origin at the peak of corruption and impunity – A Grassroots Movement for Accountability

STAND’s origins lie in the collective desire of the Liberian people for accountability, justice, and a brighter future. Over the years, the organization has positioned itself as a voice for the voiceless, fighting tirelessly for the rights of ordinary citizens.

Its advocacy efforts have been instrumental in drawing attention to the failures of Liberia’s governance systems, calling for reform in areas such as human rights, economic inequality, and corruption. In previous publications, STAND has highlighted the deteriorating state of democracy in Liberia.

In one article, the group detailed instances where democratic processes were ignored in favor of executive overreach. “We cannot allow Liberia to descend into a one-party state,” one STAND leader commented in a recent release. “Our role as advocates is to ensure that all voices are heard, not just those of the political elite.”

As the official opening of STAND’s headquarters approaches, the movement is determined to further its advocacy for transparency and accountability.

Friday’s event is not just about the physical opening of a building; it is about symbolizing a new chapter in Liberia’s civil society movement one that is dedicated to protecting the democratic gains made over the years and ensuring that the country does not slide backward.

The Global Context, following in the footsteps of Amnesty and other CSO’s Movements

STAND’s fight for justice and accountability in Liberia is part of a broader global trend where civil society organizations are stepping up to challenge governments that fail to meet the needs of their people.

Across the world, grassroots movements have been instrumental in advocating human rights and holding governments accountable for their actions.

Take, for example, the Arab Spring, where grassroots movements in countries like Tunisia and Egypt toppled authoritarian regimes and sparked a wave of pro-democracy protests across the region.

Similarly, movements such as Black Lives Matter in the United States and EndSARS in Nigeria have drawn global attention to issues of systemic injustice and police brutality.

These movements have demonstrated the power of collective action in pushing for change, even in the face of significant opposition. STAND has drawn inspiration from these movements, recognizing that real change comes from the bottom up, not the top down.

The organization’s focus on grassroots mobilization has been critical to its success thus far, and it will continue to be a driving force as STAND fights for a better Liberia.

A Unified Front for Friday’s October 25th Event

As the STAND family prepares for Friday’s official launch, the importance of unity and collective action has never been more apparent.

The mobilization efforts of the coming days will be crucial in ensuring a strong turnout and making a lasting impact on the political landscape of Liberia. STAND has called on all members to rally behind the cause and make their presence felt on Friday.

In the words of a recent STAND publication: “Now is the time. Let us demonstrate that we are the true grassroots civil society and advocacy movement fighting for justice, accountability, and a brighter future for Liberia.”

Friday’s event will be a defining moment for STAND, a chance to show the people of Liberia and the world that the fight for democracy is far from over. As the organization prepares to open its new headquarters, it does so with a clear mission: to hold those in power accountable and to ensure that the voices of ordinary citizens are not only heard but acted upon.

This is our moment.

Let’s STAND together and turn out in thousands on Friday.

We are STAND
The people’s voice

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