By Ethel A. Tweh
Liberian Vice President Jeremiah Koung has called on all citizens to eliminate what he terms the idea of a ‘Green or Blue Liberia,’ and promote peace and reconciliation.
The President of the Liberian Senate appealed to the citizenry while delivering a special statement to members of the Liberian Senate on his first day at work Thursday, 25 January 2024.
Koung’s description of a ‘Green and Blue’ Liberia that must be eliminated appears to reference not just the dominant colors associated with the ruling Unity Party and its main rival Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), but the division among Liberians supporting these political parties.
The former Nimba County Senator stressed that the 2023 elections are over and it is now time Liberians embrace such a new mindset.
On the 4th Day Sitting of the first session of the Liberian Senate, VP Koung underscored the need to give every Liberian the opportunity to contribute his or her quota to nation-building.
“We have a shared responsibility to promote reconciliation and demonstrate true leadership in bringing our people together under the umbrella of peace and national development,” he said.
According to him, the results obtained from the 10 October 2023 presidential and legislative elections point to the diversity of the political views and aspirations of the people.
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“As we take pride in the many commendations received from friendly nations across the world, we must be reminded that the ultimate goal of our service is not in the victory which comes during elections, but in the crafting and execution of laws and policies which have a positive transformative effect on the lives of our people,” he added.
He also told the plenary of the Liberian Senate that the first Regular Session of the 55th Legislature is not only historical because it climaxes the constitutional responsibilities of the 54th Legislature.
But he said it also sets the platform for the emergence of a new era of a smooth political transition which has enhanced the nation’s democratic credentials.
Meanwhile, the Liberian Vice President lauded former President George Manneh Weah and former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor for their stewardship over the last six years.
VP Koung believes that the ultimate winners in these elections are the Liberian people who are the true custodians of peace and democracy.
“Today, our Nation has once again ushered in its second successive post-war democratic transition from one government to another,” he said.
“These transitions are marks of our country’s preparedness for democracy. During the conduct of our elections and the attending transition of state power, we have, as a Nation, demonstrated our commitment to peace and the credibility of our democratic aspirations and institutions,” Koung noted.
He also congratulated all senators for a hard-fought campaign and welcomed all newly elected senators who have joined the body to continue the legacy of service to the Liberian people.
