Who Runs the Liberian Democracy?

By: Shiphrah Kenemassa Saydee

shiphrah.saydee@gmail.com

Liberia, Africa’s oldest republic, prides itself on being a beacon of democratic governance in West Africa. Since its first independent general election in 1847, which made H.E. Joseph Jenkins Roberts the first president elected by the people, Liberia has undergone significant political evolution.

From an Americo-Liberian-dominated state to a multiparty democracy, the question persists: Who truly runs the Liberian democracy?
The 1986 Constitution lays the foundation for democratic governance. Article 1 asserts that all power is inherent in the people, who delegate it through free and fair elections.

Article 3 establishes the separation of powers among three branches: the Executive, headed by the President; the Legislature, comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives; and the Judiciary, responsible for upholding and interpreting the law. These branches are designed to ensure checks and balances, but in practice, the reality is more complex.

The Legislature, elected by the people and empowered by Article 34, plays a vital role in drafting laws, managing public funds, and overseeing the Executive branch. However, it has often faced accusations of corruption, nepotism, and prioritizing self-interest over national welfare. This has weakened public confidence in its ability to function independently and serve as a true representative of the people’s interests.

The Judiciary, established as the guardian of the Constitution under Article 65, has the mandate to ensure impartial justice. While it has occasionally demonstrated independence, its credibility has been questioned in cases where political interference has allegedly influenced outcomes. Notable examples include the impeachment of Justice Kabineh M. Ja’neh (2019) and the controversies surrounding former Justice Minister Gloria Musu Scott. These instances highlight the challenges in maintaining judicial impartiality and protecting the rule of law.

Beyond the formal institutions, other forces significantly shape Liberia’s democratic landscape. Wealthy elites, both in the public and private sectors, wield disproportionate influence, often placing their personal interests above national development. This dynamic raises questions about whether the democratic process truly serves the majority or perpetuates the dominance of a privileged few.

Meanwhile, civil society organizations and the media have emerged as crucial players in promoting accountability and transparency. Backed by Article 15, which guarantees freedom of speech and the press, these groups have exposed government mismanagement and advocated for reforms. Grassroots movements, too, have demonstrated their power as agents of change, embodying Article 5(c), which mandates the promotion of good governance and accountability.

Liberia’s legal history further underscores the tension between democratic principles and practical governance. Cases like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf vs. The National Elections Commission (2005) demonstrate the Judiciary’s role in resolving electoral disputes and safeguarding democracy. Similarly, Brownell vs. The Republic of Liberia (1978) reflects historical struggles for impartial justice, showing that the challenges facing democracy are not new but deeply rooted.

While Liberia’s democracy remains imperfect, its resilience lies in the will of its people. Elections, activism, and advocacy remain critical tools for citizens to demand accountability and reform. As stipulated in Article 1, the people are the ultimate custodians of power. The survival of Liberia’s democracy depends on their collective commitment to building a system that genuinely represents and serves their interests.
In conclusion, the question of who runs the Liberian democracy is not merely theoretical but deeply practical.

Though power is constitutionally distributed among the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, the influence of external forces like elites, civil society, and international partners cannot be ignored. Ultimately, the democratic process hinges on the active participation and vigilance of the Liberian people. By holding leaders accountable and demanding transparency, they keep the dream of a truly democratic Liberia alive.