Liberia: "Accountability is Key to Sustaining Democracy”

Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has emphasized the crucial role of accountability in both sustaining Liberia's democracy and fostering socio-economic development.

The Liberian Vice President, who served as keynote speaker at the opening of a two-day summit for democracy and political accountability in Monrovia on March 20, underscored the basic connection between democracy, political accountability, and national progress. 

“Today, we gather here in affirmation of our collective belief that democracy is the bedrock for the attainment of sustainable development. Together with political accountability, democracy presents the surest pathway to addressing a nation’s socio-economic challenges,” Koung said at the two-day summit organized by Naymote Partners for Democratic Development under the theme, “Fostering Pathways for Sustainable Democracy in Liberia.”  

He added: “For us to maintain a functional democracy, we must, as a people, cultivate the mindset that accountability is one of the key tenets of democracy and that the citizens will always demand answers from those of us who are trusted with the torch of leadership.”

He expressed the hope that accountability stands as a cornerstone of democracy, asserting that leaders, whether elected or appointed, are ultimately answerable to the people they serve.

Highlighting the constitutional mandate that places power in the hands of the Liberian people, the youngest Liberian vice president stressed the imperative for leaders to transparently explain their decisions and actions.

He emphasized that accountability is not only vital for maintaining public trust but also essential for combating corruption and upholding the rule of law.

“As a result of the disappointing performances of politicians for many years, the public perception concludes that politics is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get rich,” Koung noted. “Our people are tired of business as usual; we must restore confidence, ignite hope, and change this perception.”

While acknowledging Liberia’s strides in democratic consolidation, particularly evidenced by peaceful transitions of power, he noted the need to elevate political discourse beyond personality-focused debates toward substantive policy discussions.

“Our democracy must not only be celebrated because of peaceful elections and transitions of power but also because of our collective ability to be accountable to our people and improve their livelihood,” the VP said. “This is the essence of true leadership in a modern democracy, and we must embrace this new mindset.”

He also issued a call to action for a new generation of leaders committed to institutional building, emphasizing that strong democratic institutions are paramount for achieving sustainable governance and accountability.

“These young people represent the energy, lifeblood, and future of our nation and we must rise to the occasion to preserve it,” he said while urging politicians to prioritize public service over personal gain.

He emphasized the urgency of restoring public trust in governance by embracing a culture of transparency, integrity, and selfless leadership.

“We, as Leaders, have the rare privilege to make decisions with consequences for the common good of our people; however, we still struggle to demonstrate a sense of accountability to the people we lead,” he said. “It needs to be known that the burdens, dreams, and aspirations of the people we carry on our shoulders demand the ultimate sacrifice of accountability for our stewardship.”

VP Koung reiterated the Liberian government's unwavering commitment to accountability and pledged to work tirelessly to strengthen the country's nascent democracy. 

He encouraged robust deliberations at the summit to generate actionable resolutions aimed at enhancing Liberia's governance framework.

“As we deliberate on issues of democracy and accountability in the different sessions of this summit, I encourage the frank exchange of ideas and recommendations to develop a strong resolution that can improve our governance framework,” Vice President concluded. 

Jim Wright, USAID Mission Director, stressed the importance of the recently concluded national elections and congratulated all for the conduct of a free, fair, and peaceful process. 

He emphasized that there is more work to be done, including holding political leaders accountable and ensuring the rule of law is respected. 

Wright said USAID will continue to support programs that strengthen democratic governance and accountability in Liberia.

Nikolina Stalhand, Program Officer for Democracy and Human Rights at the Swedish Embassy, lauded Naymote for organizing the summit.

She said 20 years after the signing of the peace agreement, Liberians have demonstrated to the world that Liberia is a friendly, democratic nation.

“Liberia is now a country to look forward to when it comes to practicing democracy, not only for the region but for the entire world when it comes to credible and peaceful elections,” she said.

Meanwhile, the summit is also being supported by the Swedish Embassy in Liberia.

The opening session provided the opportunity for speakers to provide their insights about the state of democracy in Liberia and make commitments to protect and defend democracy as well as promote accountability in Liberia.

Following the two-day summit, a call to action will be formulated and presented to the Liberian government, key decision-makers, and partners involved in democracy, governance, rule of law, and accountability initiatives, outlining key outcomes for national development, sustainable democracy, rule of law and advocacy for political accountability in Liberia.

It is expected to feature open discussions, expert panels, and interactive sessions focused on identifying challenges hindering the delivery of democratic benefits, evaluating the government’s developmental agenda, defining the roles of various stakeholders in upholding political accountability and deliberating on the strategic leadership role of Liberian youth in ensuring the long-term sustainability of democracy.