By Olando Testimony Zeongar
MONROVIA – Vast majority of Liberians in The Diaspora Community, have declared support for Unity Party Standard Bearer, Ambassador Joseph Nyuma Boakai’’s 2023 presidential bid, a Liberian based in the United States, Mr. Steve T.S. Bundor, II has disclosed.
Mr. Bundor, in a recent article, divulged that given the UP Standard Bearer Ambassador Boakia’s commitment to good governance, Diaspora Liberians seek to rally support for the ex-Vice President’s election and urge others to join them in voting for him on October 10th.
He observed that the October 10, 2023, presidential election is a key moment in the history of Liberia’s democratic development and is critical to the country’s future success, adding that with this in mind, the Diaspora Liberian Community is eager to support Liberian candidates who represent the values the Community prioritizes.
The Diaspora Liberian Community has prioritized good governance, integrity, equality, and building a vibrant future for all Liberians, according to Bundor, who disclosed that at this juncture in the history of Liberia, Diaspora Liberians have seen and determined that there is a need for better leadership under the stewardship of Ambassador Boakai.
He maintained that the Liberian Diaspora understands the pivotal role Liberia’s upcoming election will play in unlocking the country’s potential for a prosperous and stable future.
“Diaspora Liberians are committed to supporting a leader who will pave the path for a brighter future for the Liberian people. This year, they have identified Dr. Amb. Joseph Nyuma Boakia, Sr., as the man with the vision, ambition, and enthusiasm to fulfill this role and guide Liberia forward,” he noted.
He emphasized that Ambassador Boakia is a leading contender for the Liberian presidency, adding that the former VP has the qualifications, experience, and commitment to take Liberia on a new track toward building a better future for all of its citizens.
“He is committed to promoting peace and stability, fighting corruption, and alleviating poverty,” Bundor stated, adding “He is well-regarded within the international community and is a respected diplomat who has championed Liberia’s interests on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Bundor has disclosed that Diaspora Liberians are calling for a peaceful, fair, and transparent election that upholds the international norms of democratic governance.
“Additionally, they demand respect for the will of the people and vow to support any candidate who ensures that Liberians’ voices are heard,” Bundor further disclosed.
Diaspora Liberian developmental role in Liberia includes people from the diaspora remitting money, and sending goods and services to friends and family members in their homeland, to investing in businesses, housing, education, agricultural and the health sectors of the country.
The Diaspora, according to Bundor, also has a sense of pride to give back to Liberia, and invest in their homeland, because of their shared cultural heritage, link to family, and commitment to help rebuild Liberia.
“This positive impact can not be overstated and is essential to the development of Liberia,” he pointed out, indicating, “The diaspora has also contributed significantly to Liberia’s soft power, sharing the positive stories, values, and culture of the country with the rest of the world.”
Through their active participation in diaspora projects, networks, and initiatives, he added that Diaspora Liberians have provided global awareness and access to resources, making Liberia visible on the international stage.
In addition to the economic and soft power contributions, recalled that there have also been efforts from the Diaspora to reduce violence and strengthen social development, indicating that “Diaspora Liberians have supported and funded local peace initiatives, political awareness campaigns, and youth engagement programs.”
He averred that the long-term impact of the Diaspora’s contribution to the economic, soft power, and social development arenas of Liberia is invaluable, arguing that it has reconnected Liberians to their homeland, facilitated the rebuilding of their nation, and increased opportunities for future generations.
See below a petition letter from the Diaspora Community to fellow Liberians outside of Liberia.
Open communication
Dear Diaspora Liberians,
As we approach the general and presidential election on October 10th in Liberia, I am writing on behalf of my fellow compatriots to urge you to refuse to support any relative who will support the re-election of President George M. Weah.
Given the state of our nation, many of our citizens have been living jobless lives, struggling to make a basic living while many others remain in extreme poverty. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the upcoming elections produce a leader who will prioritize the needs of our citizens.
I understand the importance of supporting our relatives back home, but it is also important to take a stand for the nation we all call our own. If we are to progress, we have to look beyond our family ties and vote for a leader that truly understands the struggles of our people and the strength of our nation. That leader is not George M. Weah.
Thus, I ask you to stand with your fellow Liberians and refuse to support any relative that supports the re-election of George M. Weah. We all deserve to live in dignity and peace. It is our opportunity as a people to ensure that we elect a leader who can bring stability and prosperity to our nation.
I thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Mr. Steve Bundor
Vice Chairperson for media relations
JNB TACT TEAM People National Democratic Alliance / New Alliance for JNB-2023 Unity Party The Unity Party of Liberia Global Forum The CLASS Reloaded
