Political deadlock in the House of Representatives pushes the grassroots civil society organization Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND) to alarm over the worsening social and economic conditions facing the Liberian people as the crisis continues.
With essential services faltering and the potential for a government shutdown looming, STAND is urging lawmakers to prioritize the welfare of their constituents over political maneuvering.
The organization condemns the ongoing power struggle among lawmakers, which has led to a legislative stalemate, greatly exacerbating the hardships faced by ordinary Liberians.
With fundamental services like healthcare deteriorating and civil servants struggling to receive their salaries, STAND argues that lawmakers must end their infighting and focus on addressing pressing public needs.
“The legislative deadlock is not just a political issue; it’s a humanitarian crisis,” Mulbah Morlu Chairman of STAND said in a statement Monday in Monrovia.
“As lawmakers engage in their self-serving battles, the everyday lives of the people are being severely impacted. Families are facing skyrocketing electricity costs and dwindling access to essential health services. This status quo is unacceptable.”
The approaching holiday season adds urgency to STAND’s call, as families prepare for Christmas and New Year celebrations. The organization warns that persistent legislative gridlock risks depriving Liberians of these cherished traditions, further deepening the rift between the government and the people.
STAND highlights that failure to resolve the current leadership impasse not only threatens the government’s functionality but also endangers the country’s already fragile economy.
“We risk exacerbating an already dire situation where millions are underserved,” Morlu cautioned.
“It is imperative that lawmakers unite to tackle the ‘bread and butter’ issues affecting all Liberians.”
In its statement, STAND appeals to lawmakers to engage in constructive dialogue and embrace mediation efforts from groups such as the Liberia Council of Churches and the Liberian Senate. The organization has also issued a call for peaceful protests, emphasizing the need for citizens to express their grievances without violence.
STAND said lawmakers must hold themselves accountable and uphold the highest standards of public service.
“This is a matter of responsibility—both to their own constituents and to the nation as a whole,” Morlu said.
“The people deserve a House of Representatives that prioritizes their needs, not one mired in internal conflicts.”
