The Toothless Democracy:  A Democracy That Bites: The Imperative of Accountability in Liberia

By: Austin S Fallah-A True Son of the Planet Earth Soil: fallahas@yahoo.com:

The principle of accountability is at the heart of every functioning democracy. It is a foundational pillar that ensures justice and fosters respect for law and order.

As humans of conscious minds, when we pronounce “democracy,” we often envision a society characterized by freedom, rights, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.

However, a democracy afraid to take decisive, punitive actions against lawbreakers is nothing short of a farce.

It is, as some might call it, a “Toothless Democracy.”

Close to being called a “Toothless Demon-Cracy.”

Nowhere is this concept more profoundly illustrated than in the struggles faced by Liberia, a nation grappling with governance issues, impunity, and the dire need for a system that embodies its values.

Liberia’s historical context paints a picture of a nation emerging from years of conflict, corruption, and instability.

For many, the promise of democracy remains elusive, overshadowed by a prevailing environment of lawlessness and disregard for the constitution and other laws promulgated by the legislature.

The phrase “A democracy that does not bite is characterized as a toothless democracy” encapsulates the truth that Liberia must understand and internalize: a true democracy enforces the laws of the land consistently and without fear.

Citizens must recognize that the law is not just a set of rules to be ignored at will, but a framework that, when respected, provides a space for peace, growth, and equality.

At the core of Liberia’s struggle with lawlessness is the pervasive culture of impunity that has infected every sector of society.

It is alarming that government officials, law enforcement officers, and even ordinary citizens disregard the rule of law.

When those in power, either through political position or social stature, act above the law, they undermine the very principles that democracy stands for.

Failing to hold these individuals accountable only entrenches disrespect for the legal system and demoralizes those enforcing it.

This is painfully evident in the daily interactions between the police and the public they serve; a system where law enforcement is often met with ridicule rather than reverence indicates a severe breakdown of democratic values.

The police, as the frontline enforcers of law and order, are particularly affected by this culture of impunity.

When citizens feel they can break the law without consequence, they transmit a message of disrespect towards those sworn to uphold the law.

This relationship creates a vicious cycle in which a lack of respect for the law fosters greater lawlessness, making law enforcement increasingly complex and dangerous.

If the rule of law is to be Liberia’s hallmark, then it is imperative that the security apparatus functions without undue interference.

The police must be empowered to act decisively against lawbreakers without fear of reprisal or judgment from society.

Moreover, the legitimacy of any democratic government hinges on its ability to dispense justice fairly and consistently.

Failing to do so can range from societal unrest to the erosion of trust in public institutions, like we hear and read on social media and Liberia’s dailies, of governmental establishments.

When citizens witness unchecked corruption and a lack of accountability for those in power, they become disillusioned and disengaged.

This disengagement is dangerous; it sows the seeds of cynicism and apathy, leading to a generation that views democracy not as a privilege but as a punchline, a “Toothless Democracy” where justice becomes a distant concept.

To foster a culture of accountability, Liberia must revisit its constitutional framework and embrace the idea that the law applies to everyone, regardless of their status or influence.

This endeavor requires a multifaceted approach. First, robust legal and institutional reforms must address systemic corruption and ensure transparency in all government dealings.

These reforms must be accompanied by a strong commitment to enforcing ethical standards within the political class (those in the corridors of state decision-making).

Elected officials and public servants must be held to the highest ethical standards, and those who violate them must face clear consequences.

Second, the judiciary must be strengthened to ensure its independence and impartiality.

An independent judiciary is the backbone of a functioning democracy; it checks the powers of the legislative and executive branches and guards the constitution.

For Liberia, investing in judicial integrity and efficiency is crucial; courts must be able to hear cases impartially and enforce the law without pressure from external forces, including so-called political gurus.

The rule of law will regain its dignity only when citizens are confident that they will receive fair treatment in court.

Public awareness campaigns can also play a pivotal role in shaping societal attitudes towards the law.

Education about civic rights and responsibilities can empower citizens to hold their leaders accountable.

When citizens understand that democracy is not a spectator sport but requires active participation, they are more likely to demand accountability and transparency from those elected to serve the common good. 

Many years ago, in one of my graduate master of public administration-public policy civil engagement classes, taught by Professor Jim Scheibel, the former city mayor of Minnesota Capital Saint Paul, I learned that “encouraging civic engagement and creating spaces for dialogue can also strengthen the social contract between the people and their government.”

Moreover, Liberia’s democracy must embrace the notion that criticism is not an enemy but an essential component of a healthy political discourse.

This ideological concept was propounded during the celebration of Liberia’s 178th Bornday (Birthday)by the orator of the day, Dr.Emmett Layfette Dunn.

Those in positions of power must cultivate the courage to engage with dissenting voices, understanding that criticism can lead to positive change.

A democracy that fears criticism stifles growth; it becomes a shadow of what it could and should be.

Holding government officials accountable for their actions is fundamental, and citizens must voice their concerns when the law is not upheld.

Liberia’s pursuit of genuine democracy is contingent upon its willingness to create a system that enforces the rule of law without fear or favor.

A democracy without bite is without weight, leaving its citizens vulnerable to the forces it seeks to protect them from.

By instilling a culture of accountability and respect for the law, Liberia can pave the way for a brighter future where government officials, law enforcement, and the citizenry work collectively towards a just society.

The journey toward this goal may be daunting, but the cost of inaction is far too steep.

A robust democracy is born not from the mere ability to participate in elections, but from the unyielding commitment to uphold the principles of justice and accountability, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their status, are subject to the same laws and standards.

Liberia must rise to the occasion and reclaim the true essence of democracy, where the law is respected and revered.

It is time for Liberia to take that bold step to ensure that no one is above the law in a democracy that truly bites, not a toothless democracy, that may soon be called a “Toothless Demon-Cracy.”