—-Says a ‘nation that refuses to remember cannot truly heal’
Former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for International Economic Cooperation and Integration B. Elias Shoniyin, is calling for the renewal of minds as Liberia commemorate 179 years of our independence.
In a statement issued in Monrovia, Ambassador Shoniyin, encourage Liberians to stand in solemn reflection and patriotic gratitude for the enduring journey of their beloved Republic, as the oldest independent republic on the African continent which remains the symbol of Black sovereignty, resilience, and self-determination.
The Liberia Foreign Policy Advisor, cautioned that the day be celebrated not as mere celebration of freedom but a moment of profound national reflection – a time to honor our past, confront our present realities, and renew our collective commitment to Liberia’s future.
“One hundred seventy-nine years ago, our founding fathers dared to build a sovereign nation in a world shaped by colonial domination and racial exclusion. Against extraordinary odds, they established this Republic on the enduring principles of liberty, self-governance, and human dignity.
The journey was neither easy nor guaranteed. President Joseph Jenkins Roberts, in his relentless pursuit of international legitimacy for our young Republic, spent months abroad seeking recognition and support from world powers. Such was the sacrifice required to secure Liberia’s place among nations. The freedom we celebrate today was not inherited lightly; it was earned through courage, sacrifice, diplomacy, and unwavering faith.
Yet history compels us to speak honestly. The Liberian story has been one of both remarkable promise and painful contradiction.” Ambassador Shoniyin stated.
He said Liberia has experienced seasons of progress, influence, and national pride, stressing that Liberia once stood as a beacon of African leadership, diplomacy, education, and continental inspiration, however, it also have endured long and difficult chapters marked by political exclusion, economic hardship, corruption, civil conflict, institutional decay, and deep national trauma.
“Even as we celebrate today, the scars of our past remain visible. The memories of war, division, and injustice still live in our national consciousness. The honorable reburial of President William R. Tolbert, Jr. and his thirteen slain officials, alongside former President Samuel Kanyon Doe, represented more than ceremonial acts of remembrance. They reminded us that true reconciliation demands courage; the courage to confront painful truths, acknowledge historical wrongs, and pursue healing with sincerity.” Shoniyin intone.
The Liberian Diplomate further warned that ‘A nation that refuses to remember cannot truly heal. But a nation that remembers with wisdom can rebuild stronger’.
“Today, many Liberians continue to carry enormous burdens. Too many families still struggle daily against poverty, unemployment, rising living costs, inadequate healthcare, and limited opportunities. Too many young people continue searching for hope in an uncertain future. Too many citizens remain disconnected from the full promise of the Liberian dream.
These realities must weigh heavily on our conscience. And yet, even in the face of these enduring challenges, hope remains alive.
Across our country, there are encouraging signs of progress and renewal.
Today, Liberia is witnessing meaningful efforts to restore public trust, strengthen governance, promote accountability, rebuild confidence in state institutions, and reposition the nation on a path toward sustainable development. Though the road ahead remains long and difficult, there is growing determination to confront systemic challenges with seriousness, discipline, and purpose.
We are seeing renewed emphasis on integrity in public service, infrastructure rehabilitation, economic revitalization, youth empowerment, institutional reform, and stronger engagement with Liberia’s international partners. These efforts must not only continue; they must deepen and translate into measurable improvements in the lives of ordinary Liberians.
This is our collective responsibility. Our nation cannot be transformed by government alone. Liberia’s progress demands commitment from all of us; public officials, private sector leaders, civil society, religious institutions, youth, women, the diaspora, and every citizen who believes in the promise of this nation.
At 179, Liberia stands at another defining moment in history. We must decide whether we will remain prisoners of our past or architects of our future.
We must choose unity over division. Integrity over corruption. Service over selfishness.
Nation-building over narrow interests.” Ambassador Shoniyin averred
