The Metropolitan Archbishop of Monrovia has issued a heartfelt call to action for the government and citizens of Liberia to address the escalating issues of poverty and economic inequality in the country.
In his recent Pastoral Letter marking the start of the Catholic liturgical period of Advent, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Blamo Jubwe talked about the dire need for systemic governance changes to alleviate the suffering faced by many Liberians.
The Archbishop’s message highlights the stark contrast between the affluent and the impoverished, likening the current societal divide to the biblical parable of the rich man and Lazarus.
“While the affluent enjoy earthly wealth and pleasure with a condescending attitude and arrogance, many of our people wallow hopelessly in miserable conditions and struggling to make ends meet,” he said.
This disparity, he argues, is a challenge that goes beyond mere economic statistics; it is a moral crisis that calls for immediate and decisive action from both leaders and citizens.
The World Bank’s recent Liberia Poverty Assessment 2023 Report: Towards a More Inclusive Liberia highlights the dire situation, with 8 out of 10 individuals affected by poverty in rural areas, compared to 3 out of 10 in Monrovia.
The report describes Liberia as one of the world’s poorest countries, largely due to a resource-driven growth model that has failed to generate sufficient employment opportunities or foster broad-based growth and development.
Democracy and rule of law
Archbishop Jubwe’s letter acknowledged the peaceful democratic process in 2023, which was recognized globally as a significant achievement for Liberia.
However, he stressed that while the political landscape has shown progress, it remains imperative to nurture and consolidate democracy through respecting the rule of law and seeking solutions to problems through peaceful means.
He urged all stakeholders, regardless of their status, to work collectively for the common good, reinforcing that governance is not solely the responsibility of politicians but a shared commitment among all citizens.
The Archbishop’s call for action comes at a time when high levels of poverty and economic disparity are creating a fraying social fabric. He notes the urgency not only for immediate relief but for long-term governance reforms that promote economic justice and equity. “We cannot continue to pretend that all is well. Across all sectors of our society are characterized uncertainties and traumas,” he said.
“Indeed, our country Liberia remains a deeply divided nation. So much anger and jealousy; hate and bitterness; revenge and deceit. Let us not delude ourselves that deep-seated hurt, dissatisfaction or unresolved issues will easily be forgotten or swept under the carpet as ‘let bye-gone be bye-gone.
“This malaise should serve as a lens through which to view the broader realities of what is happening in our society today. Let us not forget that those who fail to read history are poised to repeat history. Let us remind ourselves that we, as a people and nation, stand in need of healing, reconciliation, forgiveness, hope and peace. Yes, we all need peace and harmony with each other.”
