Liberians Deserve Better.
Solomon Myers (December, 29th 2004)
"...One does not have to be a political genius to figure out that Liberia is headed towards chaos. In a small nation like Liberia, which just emerged from years of civil war, it is difficult to fathom why there would 36 political parties; in spite of calls for unity...." |
As Liberia races towards the 2005 elections, it is clear that Liberians will not have the advantage of having two major political parties that would embrace virtually every element of society.
One does not have to be a political genius to figure out that Liberia is headed toward chaos. In a small nation like Liberia, which just emerged from years of civil war, it is difficult to fathom why there would be 36 political parties; in spite of calls for unity.
This lack of coalition building by self-serving politicians diverts from the American model of political alliance building; which ensures that the major party can direct political culture and policies, and can be held accountable at election time.
Self-serving politicians have remained polarized as opposed to merging and uniting to fight towards common goals, under the banner of two main political parties.
Self-interest has become the raison-d’etre for this election and politicians are not interested in building coalitions and alliances to better serve the median voter.
There is no major political group that can be held responsible in case of failure of government.
The public at large can only see rebellious groups in bits and pieces, with no clear mandate as to how to govern the citizenry.
It is clear that these splinter groups are determined to derail the political process that the Liberian people have paid a dear price for. Liberia is headed toward a chaotic quasi democracy; in other words, a totalitarian style of "democracy"; where lack of commitment toward citizenry and command economy are the order of the day. This will eventually give birth to a permanent failed state.
I am appealing to the international community to re-emphasize to these talking head politicians not to frustrate the confidence of Liberian voters.
The election has been pegged at a whopping US$17.5 million, yet politicians have not given signs of having clear mandates toward solving the pertinent issues facing Liberia.
There is no foreseeable forecast that there is a willingness to take on the challenge to lead the country to stability.
Liberians must demand responsible representation.
You can force the horse to the riverside but you can not force the horse to drink.
From where I sit...
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Solomon Myers hails from Buchanan, Liberia. He is a Political Scientist/Historian, currently based in Ottawa, Canada.
Other articles by Solomon Myers |
