Referendum Will Go Ahead

By Mark N. Mengonfia –mmenginfia@gmail.com

The Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Nathaniel F.  McGill says rumors about the cancellation of December 8 referendums is false.

At a press conference held at the C. Cecil Dennis conference Hall Monday November 23, 2020, Minister McGill said the Court did not stop the Referendum, but asked the NEC to separate the proposition.

He went on to say “We are asking all Liberians to vote yes to all the propositions.”

He said, “the only way you will not support the referendum is when you do not love the country, but if you love the country, you will vote for all propositions.”

“This is not about political parties issues, it is about the country, let’s make this history work together” McGill said.

“Only selfish, greedy politicians who will not want the tenure to be reduced,” he said.

Referencing Cllr. Gloria Musu Scott Constitution review committee, Mr. McGill said money was spent  by partners of Liberia during the presidency of Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Liberians spoke their minds as it relates to the referendum process adding “The views of Liberians need to be respected.”

Based on the advocacy of the President, McGill said the President proposed for the reduction of the tenure of the president, senators, and representatives and Dual citizenship with a good intention.

Originally, Dual citizenship was not part of the proposition that were agreed upon by Liberians during the Constitution Review Process, but the State’s Minister said it was intended to give Liberians outside of the country an opportunity to hold their two citizenships.

Speaking additionally, he said, “If the Liberian people do not want to change it, no problem, but there is no reason to fear.”

“This President does not want to stay long into power” Minister McGill intoned as he added, “people need to trust their leaders”

“If you want for the President to stay there for 12 years, we will be there and will stay change it. Greedy politicians need to understand,” he stressed.

Responding to question about the postponement of the referendum, McGill said those who want it postponed do not mean well for the country.

He called on those in the opposition and Liberians in general to join he and others to vote all yes for the propositions as sign of love to county.

“Those that are listening to me’, he said, “It is your decision, do not let the politicians fool you.”

According to him, he will reach out and campaign for the propositions to sail through.

Also speaking at the conference was Liberia’s Solicitor General, Cllr. Syrenius Cephus who said the information in the national gazette that was published was confusing.

Giving his side of justification for Liberians to vote for propositions that are shortlisted for the referendum, Cllr. Cephus said the action of President George Weah to propose reduction of president tenure was the first time in history of Liberia.

At first, the National Elections Commission placed all the propositions in three reduction of tenure of president, senator and representatives was placed in one category represented by big and small chair; while Dual citizenship was represented by two passports and umbrella and rain for dry seasons.

But Liberia’s Supreme Court has mandated the NEC to have each of the propositions separated with single ballot paper printed for each of them as was agreed upon by the legislature.