To Support Liberia’s UN Security Council Bid, Weah Calls for Immediate Resolution Of Internal Issues and Restoration of Good Governance

In a detailed statement released on September 19, 2024, former Liberian President George Manneh Weah expressed both support and concern regarding Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2026-2027 session. While commending the country’s historical commitment to peace and its role in promoting global stability, Weah cautioned that internal political issues might undermine Liberia’s chances.

The statement, which acknowledged the receipt of a letter from Liberia’s Foreign Minister Sarah Beysolow-Nyanti, highlighted the groundwork laid by Weah’s administration to secure endorsements from ECOWAS and the African Union for Liberia’s bid. At the 63rd Ordinary Session of ECOWAS, Liberia was unanimously endorsed as the sole candidate from the region for the UNSC seat. This endorsement was further reinforced by the African Union.

Weah emphasized that Liberia’s aspiration for the UNSC seat was rooted in the country’s legacy as Africa’s first independent republic and its historic contributions to world peace. However, he expressed concern over recent developments under the current administration, which he believes contradict the values of democracy, rule of law, and peace—principles central to the UNSC’s mission.

One of the key concerns raised by Weah was the August 22, 2024, raid on the headquarters of his political party, the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), by the Liberia National Police. He described the incident as an unprovoked attack on political freedoms, involving the use of live ammunition and injuring several partisans. Weah argued that such actions pose a threat to Liberia’s democratic stability and could harm the country’s credibility as a candidate for the UNSC.

Weah also criticized the government for what he called a “schism” in its policy approach, noting that while one branch of the government formally communicated with him regarding the UNSC bid, another launched attacks against him through public statements. He urged the current administration to focus on fostering reconciliation and unity, rather than fueling division.

In his statement, Weah reiterated his support for Liberia’s bid but stressed that the government must address internal challenges and restore its commitment to good governance, political freedoms, and the rule of law. He called for genuine diplomatic efforts and criticized superficial actions, such as planned photo opportunities at the United Nations, as insufficient to secure Liberia’s position on the global stage.

Weah concluded by urging the administration to take proactive steps to consolidate Liberia’s diplomatic gains and re-engage international partners to ensure the nation’s successful bid for the UNSC seat.