The NGO Says It’s Strongly Committed To Advocating For Accountability & Transparency
PHOTO: Bishop Samuel Quire, Board Chairman, Faith and Justice Network
By Augustine Octavius, augustineoctavius@gmail.com
An organization committed to upholding of justice, fairness, and transparency in the Mano River Basin, the Faith and Justice Network has stated its strong commitment advocating for accountability in both the outgoing and incoming administrations of Liberia to prioritize accountability and transparency.
The network’s board Chairman Bishop Samuel Quire, who is also the head of the United Methodist Church in Liberia, reiterated that the call for audits by the people of Liberia is not intended to witch hunt or as political reprisal.
But rather it is an essential mechanism to ensure financial integrity and accountable governance.
Bishop Quire made the call when he delivered his New Year’s message on the theme: “Audit is Not Witch Hunt- Churches in the Mano River Basin Advocate for Accountability and Transparency in the Public Sector,” by the Faith and Justice Network in Monrovia on Monday.
“We firmly believe that transparency is not an option but an essential component for the progress and development of any nation,” adding: “the Faith and Justice Network echoes the collective voice of the churches in the Mano River Basin, urging both the outgoing and incoming administrations of Liberia to prioritize accountability and transparency.”
“We reiterate that the call for audits by the Liberian people is not intended as an act of witch hunting or political reprisal but as an essential mechanism to ensure financial integrity and accountable governance.”
“Furthermore,” he went on, “we encourage a collaborative effort between the national governments, churches and civil society organizations in the Mano River Basin to implement comprehensive and transparent auditing processes that uphold the highest standards of accountability.”
According to him, these measures will not only bolster public trust but also pave the way for sustained growth and development in the region.
“As Liberia eagerly anticipates the inauguration of the new government on January 22, 2024, it is imperative to signal caution and awareness regarding potential concerns that may impact the stability and progress of our beloved nation.”
“On the threshold of a brand-new year, 2024,’ the network’s board chair went on, “let us collectively embrace the promise it holds and the opportunities it offers.”
“It’s a time for reflection, renewed hope, and unwavering determination to steer our nation and community towards progress and unity and the Faith and Justice Network remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a society where justice, transparency, and accountability prevail.”
Bishop Quire maintained that the network stands ready to support and collaborate with all stakeholders dedicated to the advancement of these principles for the betterment of Liberia and the Mano River Basin.
He added that recent trends and observations in Liberia have indicated the potential glorification of misconduct, particularly among the youth, could pose a significant challenge to the nation’s harmony and development if left unchecked.
“This phenomenon, if not addressed swiftly and decisively, could potentially undermine the values of responsible citizenship, ethical engagement, and the rule of law.”
“We can critique the outgoing Coalition for Democratic Change(CDC)-Led government in Liberia with fairness and sincerity regarding the indoctrination of militancy to glorify misconduct among young people.”
“This critique acknowledges the need for incoming governments to channel youthful energy and enthusiasm positively while cautioning against inadvertently encouraging behaviors that deviate from responsible citizenship and ethical engagement.”
“The approach of the outgoing Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) towards engaging young people has, at times, raised concerns about the glorification of misconduct and militancy.”
“The outgoing Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) messaging and strategies, while aiming to mobilize youth support and enthusiasm, have occasionally bordered on glorifying behaviors and actions that promote misconduct rather than emphasizing constructive engagement.”
“There has been observable rhetoric and actions that inadvertently romanticize or encourage behaviors characterized by aggression, confrontations, and disrespect for the rule of law.”
“Such approaches, while seeking to foster youth participation and support, risk normalizing conduct that deviates from the principles of responsible citizenship and peaceful engagement.”
“This pattern of indoctrination or messaging may inadvertently cultivate a culture where misconduct is seen as a means to effect change or gain political recognition, potentially undermining the values of peaceful dialogue, civic responsibility, and ethical conduct among the youth.”
“In light of these observations,” he explained, “it is critical for both the incoming government and society at large to take proactive and decisive steps to alleviate this menace as quickly as possible.”
“It is crucial for leadership, especially within government, to model and promote behaviors that align with constructive engagement, ethical conduct, and adherence to the rule of law.”
“Encouraging young people to participate in civic activities and contribute positively to society must prioritize peaceful means of expression and constructive dialogue, avoiding the glorification of misconduct or militancy as a means to an end.”
“Also, our recent observations and consultations with various churches in the Mano River Basin have highlighted a growing concern regarding the need for enhanced accountability in public governance.”
“Therefore, we wish to emphasize that the call for audits in any of the MRU member state is not an act of witch hunting or political vendetta but a vital step towards ensuring financial probity and responsible governance.”
Meanwhile, Bishop Quire has advanced a five-count recommendation to the in-coming government aimed at signaling caution regarding potential concerns that may impact the stability and progress in Liberia.
The network among other things recommended that the in-coming government work with civil society organizations facilitate constructive dialogue between the government, youth and women leaders, civil society organizations purposely to understand the underlying issues fueling glorification of misconduct in the country.
The Faith and Justice Network also proposed that the in-coming government Implement targeted programs that channel the energy and enthusiasm of young people towards positive engagement, civic responsibility, and skill development, fostering a sense of purpose and contribution to nation-building.
Promote responsible citizenship with launch of educational campaign
Bishop Quire has spoken of the need for the government to launch educational campaigns aimed at promoting responsible citizenship, ethical conduct, and the importance of peaceful engagement among the youth, emphasizing the value of dialogue and civic responsibility.
The network suggested that the incoming administration encourage leaders at all levels to model behaviors that uphold the principles of ethical engagement, respect for the rule of law, and peaceful resolution of differences, serving as examples for the younger generation.
Bishop Quire recommended that the UP-led government should also foster community-based initiatives that promote unity, social cohesion, and mentorship opportunities, providing guidance and support for young people in positive directions.
He extended his deepest condolences, on behalf of the Board of Directors of the Faith and Justice Network, to the families and community affected by the devastating fuel tanker explosion in Totota, Bong County on Tuesday, December 26, 2023.