As Liberia stands on the precipice of a new era with the election of President-elect Amb. Joseph N. Boakai, the process of appointing individuals to key government positions is underway. In this pivotal moment, a clarion call is made for a departure from the practices of the past, where appointments were often influenced by political affiliations, family connections, and religious ties. Instead, let integrity, commitment, and competence be the touchstones by which members of the new administration are selected.
The Evolution of Appointment Standards:
Gone are the days when nepotism and favoritism dictated appointments to top government positions. In today’s global landscape, where nations are striving for excellence and international recognition, it is imperative to choose individuals based on their integrity, commitment, and competence. This shift in focus ensures that Liberia aligns itself with the best practices observed by nations worldwide.
The Significance of Integrity:
Integrity, characterized by honesty, strong moral principles, and uprightness, serves as the bedrock for the developmental trajectory of any nation. Trust and confidence, both domestically and internationally, are earned through the consistent display of integrity by those in positions of public trust. The absence of integrity has visible consequences, both within Liberia and on the global stage. Aligning one’s actions with beliefs, walking the talk, and practicing what is preached are the hallmarks of integrity. It is a key pillar that, when absent, jeopardizes the entire system.
Commitment as a Key Gauge:
Commitment, the state of being dedicated to a task or cause, emerges as another crucial criterion for selecting team members in the Joseph Boakai administration. Dedication to duty fosters productivity, enhances performance, and rapidly builds trust. Committed individuals set positive examples, demonstrating responsibility and dependability. Party affiliations, connections, and relationships should take a back seat to commitment when assembling a team that will serve the nation’s interests.
Competence for Sustainable Success:
Competence, the possession of sufficient knowledge, skill, and strength in executing a task successfully and efficiently, is indispensable in government service. A competent team enhances institutional success, attracting credibility and support from international partners. By ensuring that team members possess the right skills for their roles, the government can achieve higher productivity, better quality, and increased respect.
A Scriptural Reminder:
The call for integrity, commitment, and competence echoes the wisdom found in the Holy Book, which reminds us that “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them” (Proverbs 11:3). Embracing these values ensures that those serving in positions of public trust uphold the nation’s reputation, attract investors, and foster collaboration with regional and international partners.
Conclusion:
As Liberia moves forward with its newly elected leadership, let integrity, commitment, and competence be the touchstones that guide the selection of individuals to serve in the government. By adhering to these principles, the nation can regain its global reputation, attract investors, and build a future marked by sustained development and prosperity. In unity, integrity, and commitment, our beloved land of liberty will continue to thrive.