In a historic address at the inaugural meeting of the Joint Presidential Transition Team (JPTT) on November 24, 2023, President George Manneh Weah of the Republic of Liberia emphasized the importance of honesty, patriotism, and unity among team members. The President highlighted the significance of their role in ensuring a seamless transfer of power from the outgoing to the incoming administrations, underscoring the national interest as the top priority.
The Call for Honesty and Patriotism:
President Weah began his address by challenging the members of the JPTT to demonstrate a high degree of honesty and love for the country throughout their deliberations. He stressed the need for the team to prioritize the national interest and carry forward the spirit of unity and success that has brought Liberia to this pivotal point in its democratic journey.
Reflecting on the Peaceful Transfer of Power:
The President drew attention to Liberia’s historic achievement six years ago when it witnessed the peaceful transfer of power from one democratically-elected leader to another after a span of more than 70 years. President Weah commended the nation’s progress in democratic governance and urged the JPTT to uphold this legacy by ensuring an effective, efficient, and seamless transfer of power to President-Elect Joseph Nyuma Boakai and his team.
The Collective Commitment to National Good:
Highlighting the collective responsibility of the JPTT, President Weah emphasized that the success of the transition process hinges on the team’s commitment to the greater good of the nation. He implored the team to work towards an outcome that not only shapes Liberia’s trajectory but also positively influences peace, security, stability, and future prosperity.
An Historic Occasion:
Welcoming the JPTT to the Executive Mansion, President Weah acknowledged the historic nature of the occasion, guided by the authority granted under Chapter 2, Article 5(c) of the 1986 Constitution of the Republic of Liberia. He underscored the solemn duty entrusted to the team to facilitate the seamless transfer of power, marking a crucial chapter in Liberia’s democratic legacy and national history.
The President’s Confidence in the Incoming Leadership:
President Weah expressed his highest confidence in the representatives of the incoming administration on the JPTT, noting their competence and skills required to navigate the country smoothly from the outgoing administration to the incoming one.
Democratic Achievements and Global Recognition:
Reflecting on the outcome of the 2023 General and Presidential Elections, President Weah celebrated Liberia’s democratic progress and the international acclaim received for the excellence of the elections. He highlighted the government’s commitment to reinforcing Liberia’s credentials as a mature democracy governed by strong institutions and a respect for the rule of law.
Conclusion:
As President Weah concluded his address, he emphasized that the success of the JPTT and the smooth transition process would not only shape Liberia’s future but also set a new standard for democracy, not only in Africa but for the global community. The President’s call for honesty, patriotism, and unity serves as a guiding principle for the team entrusted with the monumental task of ensuring a peaceful transfer of power and maintaining Liberia’s democratic legacy.