PHOTO: Gregory Blamo, LNRCS executive
By Alfred Kollie, alfredkolliejr92@gmail.com
Monrovia, Liberia– The Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS) is preparing to host its 52nd General Assembly this week, when new national governance leadership will be elected to oversee its operations for the next four years.
The General Assembly (GA), which will take place from December 18-19, 2024 is the highest decision-making body of the LNRCS, will elect a new national president, three regional vice presidents, a national treasurer, and leaders for various constitutional commissions.
This assembly is particularly significant as it emphasizes the election of new leadership every four years, while biennial meetings focus on reviewing reports, plans, and budgets.
Under the theme, “Enhancing Governance and Leadership for Growth and Sustainable Development,” this week’s 52nd General Assembly of the LNRCS is expected to draw at least 50 delegates, including county governance leaders and national officials.
Also in attendance will be members of the Red Cross management team, election committee members, and esteemed guests from partner organizations and government institutions.
Together, they will set priorities and review the LNRCS’s annual plan and budget for the following year.
This upcoming assembly follows successful local elections within the Red Cross’s 91 branches and 15 chapters, solidifying the organization’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. In those elections, a total of 578 individuals, including 382 males and 196 females, were elected to various roles such as Branch Coordinators, Treasurers, and Youth Representatives. At the county level, 92 leaders were selected through a secret voting process for key posts.
Notably, the recent elections marked a significant step towards gender parity, with women occupying 43% of elected positions in local leadership.
Additionally, the newly elected leaders come from diverse religious backgrounds and include individuals with varying physical challenges, reflecting LNRCS’s commitment to inclusivity and representation.
Mr. Jerome N. J. Clarke II, who has led the organization’s National Governance Board for two consecutive terms, will not seek re-election.
This transition opens the door for new leadership and innovative approaches to guide LNRCS moving forward.
As the LNRCS aims to continue its mission of alleviating human suffering with compassion and integrity, the organization encourages stakeholders, partners, and the public to remain engaged and supportive.
The focus on transparency, inclusivity, and accountability will be crucial as the LNRCS charts its course for sustainable development and impactful humanitarian action.