Prioritizing National Interests: A Call to Liberian Governance to see things beyond holistically

By: Austin S. Fallah-An Advocate for Social and Economic Justice for All of Elohim Adonai’s Creations.

In the realm of international politics, every nation inherently possesses the sovereign authority to proceed on its path based on the understanding and needs of its people.

This write-out aims to critically analyze and advocate for the Liberian government to decide on national issues based on the necessities of the Liberian people, not under international pressure.

It argues that, against the backdrop of fear of sanctions, Liberian government officials are excessively yielding to international pressure rather than giving primary regard to the wishes and aspirations of their countrymen.

It further contends for punishing criminals within the nation, not due to international demands, but to serve as an effective deterrent to potential future lawbreakers.

The issue of succumbing to international pressure signals a significant challenge to the nation’s sovereignty.

One may argue that in today’s interdependent global arena, it remains almost impossible to disregard international voices entirely, especially when it comes to big powers.

However, such a stand fails to recognize that the essence of democracy, so sincerely advocated by these powers, rests on giving precedence to the voice of the country’s citizens,  the bedrock of national authority and decision-making.

The Liberian citizenry, with their distinct culture, history, and lived experiences, are the most competent entities to articulate their realities and the changes they hope to see in the nation’s governance.

International bodies, however well-intentioned, cannot possibly foresee the intricate nuances of the country’s internal dynamics.

Hence, any policy decision crafted under their dictation paves the way for an unsustainable future that is likely to misalign with the country’s unique fabric.

An integral component of national issues is the administration of justice and punishment of criminals.

It is been widely observed that the Liberian government tends to take punitive actions under international scrutiny rather than stemming from an inherent demand for justice or to deter future crimes.

Agreeably, pressure from international human rights bodies can nudge a country towards just judicial practices.

Nonetheless, succumbing to international demands suggests a superficial commitment to justice, potentially undermining the domestic legal framework’s growth in the long run.

The country needs to enact effective laws to punish perpetrators, primarily to protect its citizens and deter potential criminals.

This process must emanate from within, based on a comprehensive understanding of their social fabric, rather than echoing international sentiments.

Thus, the Liberian government’s over-reliance on international pressure impedes this essential process, creating a society susceptible to prevailing criminal activities as the law appears as an insincere, foreign-dictated construct, rather than a reliable guardian of the people.

Taking root in the firm ground of national unity and carving a path that asserts and protects the distinctive identity and aspirations of the Liberian people should underpin every decision.

Depression of the collective will of the Liberian people not only harms democratic ideals but also thwarts the nation’s journey to self-sufficiency and self-respect in the global forefront.

it is high time Liberian government officials radically reorient their decision-making approach, giving higher credence to the people’s voice that has been crying for attention, drowning amidst the roaring, intimidating clatter of international pressure.

The backbone of the justice system should rest on domestic needs and realities, rather than oscillating under the weight of international force.

Liberia, like every other nation, must stand guard at its sovereignty gates, ensuring that only those knocking with respect and good intentions enter to influence their destiny.

Only then can Liberia truly be a democratic nation, where justice is not an imported product, but rather, a homegrown initiative that beams as a deterrent to potential wrongdoers.