PHOTO: Pewee Baysah, President of ALJA
Minneapolis, USA November 22, 2023- The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) is commending the resilient people of Liberia on the successful and peaceful conclusion of the recent presidential election and President Elect Joseph Boakai on his historic election as Liberia’s 26th President
In a press issued on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, ALJA says the peaceful and transparent nature of the elections reflect the maturity and progress of Liberia’s democracy and is a testament to the deep-rooted desire for positive change and progress in the country.
The Association is also commending President George Weah for his statesmanship and exemplary leadership in conceding the recent elections. The Association noted that President Weah’s decision to concede gracefully and swiftly demonstrates a deep respect for the will of the Liberian people and upholds the integrity of the electoral process, while setting a commendable example for the sub region and the African continent.
The Association stressed that a free and independent media is crucial for fostering transparency, accountability and the overall wellbeing of the society and is urging the incoming administration to strengthen the country’s democratic tenets including Press freedom and the rule of law.
ALJA says it stands ready to collaborate with President Elect Boakai’s administration in promoting a free and vibrant media environment that will contribute to the continued growth and development of Liberia.
As Liberia ushers in a new era under President-Elect Boakai’s leadership, the Association emphasized the importance of fostering unity and healing the divisions that may have arisen during the electoral process. Reconciliation should be at the forefront of the national agenda to ensure that all citizens feel valued and included in the nation-building process.
The US based Liberian Journalists organization stressed that Inclusivity is key to building a robust and diverse society that represents the interests of all Liberians and is encouraging President-Elect Boakai to embrace a governance approach that includes voices from various sectors of society, recognizing the strength that comes from diversity and differing perspectives.
Furthermore, ALJA urges the new administration to uphold and strengthen the rule of law. A commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights is essential for building a stable and thriving democratic society. ALJA believes that a government guided by the principles of transparency and the rule of law will contribute to the overall well-being and progress of Liberia.
Meanwhile, ALJA is profoundly saddened and appalled by the tragedy involving Unity Party partisans who lost their lives in a fatal vehicle accident while celebrating their party’s victory. ALJA extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and the entire Unity Party community affected by this devastating incident.
The incident, which occurred on Monday, November 20, 2023 at the UP headquarters, resulted in the death of three people and left 25 others wounded. The celebration of political victories is a fundamental aspect of democracy, and it is deeply disheartening when such joyous occasions turn into moments of profound grief.
ALJA calls on the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents in the future.
ALJA is a conglomeration of current and retired Liberian Journalists residing in the Americas. It is a 201c (3) non-profit organization. The Association was founded in1998 to foster companionship amongst its members and their American counterparts