In a rather embarrassing recent announcement, the Liberian Government has made a significant shift in its position on the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) vote regarding the Gaza ceasefire.
President George M. Weah has mandated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to rescind Liberia’s previous negative vote on Resolution A/ES-10/L.27, which addresses the protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations in Gaza.
On December 12, 2023, Liberia initially rejected the resolution, but this latest decision marks a reversal of their stance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, acting under the President’s directive, has actively worked towards ensuring the reversal of the negative vote.
The resolution itself emphasizes the importance of a ceasefire in Gaza, with the aim of protecting civilians and securing compliance with legal and humanitarian obligations. By rescinding its negative vote, Liberia is signaling its alignment with the international community’s efforts to address the ongoing conflict and strive for peace in the region.
While the specific reasons behind Liberia’s initial rejection and subsequent reversal have not been disclosed in the statement, this change in stance reflects a shift in the country’s approach to the Gaza ceasefire issue. It also highlights its willingness to reconsider and realign its position with global efforts to promote peace and protect civilian lives.
On the other hand, some Liberian political commentators say, President Weah took the decision as reprisal action against the American Government that recently imposed sanctions on some of his top government officials for corruption.
The first action taken by Weah against the Americans for sanctioning ,”corrupt” officials was an Executive Order, banning unprocessed rubber from leaving Liberia. Firestone, the largest rubber firm in the world is operating in Liberia, and political pundidts say, the action was intended to hurt American interest in the country.
As this story unfolds, it is important to monitor any potential developments or reactions from other countries and stakeholders involved in the Gaza ceasefire discussions.
Further details regarding the implications of Liberia’s reversal on the UN Gaza ceasefire vote are expected to emerge in the coming days.
How will the Americans react to the outgoing Weah who was recently defeated in a closely contested elections by Jospeh Boakai, remains to be seen.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
