Liberia: STAND Demands an End to Leadership Impasse at House of Representatives
Monrovia – The grassroots civil society organization, Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND), has called upon all members of the House of Representatives to end their self-serving power struggle and focus on the urgent needs of the Liberian people.
In a release on Monday, STAND said the nation is watching as lawmakers place political squabbles above the basic welfare of the masses they swore to serve.
STAND, meanwhile, is condemning the legislative deadlock that has created a “shameful” stalemate, deepening the suffering of ordinary Liberians who are already burdened by the government’s failures. “The in-fighting must end, and the interests of the people be given high priority,” STAND said.
“While lawmakers bicker, critical services are deteriorating. The healthcare system is failing as it runs short of essential prescription drugs, leaving the most vulnerable without care. Civil servants’ unpaid salaries are barely sufficient to meet family needs, electricity costs are soaring, and essential social services are becoming increasingly unaffordable. Each day the stalemate persists, these hardships worsen, and the masses bear the brunt and pay the price. This was not what they bargained for when they elected their lawmakers.”
With the Christmas and New Year holidays fast approaching —a time meant for unity, peace, and family gatherings — STAND warns that continued legislative gridlock could threaten to rob Liberian families of these cherished traditions. “Lawmakers must act now to restore stability and meet their constituents’ pressing needs, which are far more urgent than political positioning.”
STAND warns that this ongoing division among lawmakers risks further destabilizing the government’s ability to function, exacerbating an already dire economic condition and leaving millions of Liberians underserved. “STAND urges lawmakers to end their differences and unite to address the “bread and butter” issues—the critical, everyday concerns that affect every Liberian.”
“While we recognize and respect the rights of citizens to protest, STAND calls on the organizers to do so peacefully and accentuate the interest of the masses. Hence, we urge the government to provide protection for peaceful protesters as they exercise their fundamental rights.”
STAND reminds both sides of their constitutional and fiduciary duties as lawmakers to uphold the highest standards of accountability and the rule of law. They must hold themselves to the same high standards as ordinary citizens, whom they expect to follow the law and meet their obligations.
“STAND demands that all parties engage in constructive dialogue to peacefully and swiftly resolve this leadership impasse, which continues to disrupt legislative proceedings. STAND supports mediation efforts by the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC) , the Liberian Senate and other peace loving groups, and calls upon Liberia’s interfaith mediation council to play a more active role in ensuring a resolution.”
STAND added its position is clear: it seeks no allegiance with either side but stands firmly with the people. The mandate is simple — put an end to this power struggle and prioritize the welfare of the masses, especially as the holiday season approaches. The people deserve a House of Representatives that will work for their needs, not one consumed by selfish internal battles.
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