The Voices Of The Elders of Liberia (VOTE/RL), a group of distinguished senior citizens aged 60 and above, have issued a statement calling for peace and stability amid the heightened tensions surrounding the Speakership issue in the National Legislature.
This appeal was delivered by Elder Maureen J. Hutchinson, Chairperson of VOTE/RL, at a press conference held at the residence of former Ambassador Nehn Dukely Tolbert in the Sophie Community.
The group expressed deep concern over recent events, including protests, violence, and the burning of sections of the Capitol Building. As a non-political body comprising members from diverse backgrounds and political affiliations, VOTE/RL emphasized the need for unity and adherence to the rule of law during these turbulent times.
The elders urged all Liberians to avoid actions that could disrupt the peace of the nation. They stressed the importance of refraining from violence and hate speech, while promoting restraint and responsible leadership. Leaders from political, religious, social, and business sectors were encouraged to act with caution and communicate clearly, taking into account Liberia’s high levels of illiteracy and youthful population.
VOTE/RL highlighted the importance of respecting the rule of law, noting that the Supreme Court’s decisions are final and must be adhered to in all circumstances. They called for a professional and unbiased investigation into the Capitol Building fire, recommending the inclusion of regional and international experts to ensure transparency and accountability, given Liberia’s limited resources and capacity.
In addition to calling for an investigation, the elders announced their intention to engage with key national figures, including the President, Cabinet members, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and the Judiciary. Their objective is to mediate the ongoing legislative crisis and ensure that members of the Legislature return to focusing on their responsibilities to the Liberian people.
The group commended former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for her timely and forthright statement on the issue, aligning themselves with her call for peace and stability. They also expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Liberian Council of Churches, the Muslim community, and other civil society organizations in promoting unity and harmony.
Recognizing the pivotal role of women in society, VOTE/RL urged Liberian women to take decisive action in addressing the current crisis. They also encouraged national leaders to simplify the Supreme Court’s judgment for the public, fostering greater understanding and reducing ambiguity.
The press release concluded with signatures from prominent members of the group, including Elder Olubanke King-Akerele, Elder Roseda E. Marshall, MD, Elder Henry Rhodes (Rtd. LNP Colonel), Elder D.E.S. Kanadakai, Ed.D., Elder Doretha A. Moore, and Elder Rupel E. Marshall, Sr., with Elder Maureen Johnson Hutchinson signing as Chairperson.
As Liberia stands at a crossroads, the Voices of the Elders reiterated their commitment to fostering peace, patriotism, and nation-building. Elder Hutchinson emphasized, “This is a pivotal moment for our country. Let us unite to safeguard the fragile fabric of our nation and build a future rooted in harmony and shared progress.”
This appeal was made by Elder Maureen J. Hutchinson, Chairperson of VOTE/RL, at a press conference held at former Ambassador Nehn Dukely Tolbert’s residence in the Sophie Community. Expressing deep concern over recent events like protests, violence, and the Capitol Building sections being set on fire, the non-political VOTE/RL group stressed the importance of unity and adherence to the rule of law during this challenging period. They urged all Liberians to refrain from actions that could disrupt the nation’s peace and emphasized the necessity of avoiding violence and hate speech while promoting restraint and responsible leadership.
Additionally, VOTE/RL underscored the significance of respecting the rule of law and urged for a professional and unbiased investigation into the Capitol Building fire, with regional and international experts involved for transparency and accountability. The elders also announced their plan to engage with national figures to mediate the legislative crisis and guide legislators back to fulfilling their responsibilities to the Liberian people. The group commended former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and other entities for promoting peace and stability, recognizing the vital role women play in addressing the crisis and urging national leaders to clarify the Supreme Court’s judgment for public understanding.
The press release was signed by notable members of the group. VOTE/RL’s primary focus remains on ensuring peace, patriotism, and nation-building, stressing unity to safeguard Liberia’s future and foster progress for all.
