ALCOD Pivots to Advocacy for Absentee Voting: Engaging Government and Legal Experts

ALCOD has shifted its strategy to advocate for absentee voting for expatriate Liberians, seeking legal clarity on voting rights under the Constitution. Led by Eminent Chairman Emmanuel S. Wettee, ALCOD intends to engage President Boakai for the government’s official position, while simultaneously collaborating with the National Elections Commission and supportive lawmakers. This initiative builds on ALCOD’s previous success in advocating for dual citizenship and aims to secure the voting rights of Liberians in the diaspora for future elections.

The All-Liberian Conference on Dual Citizenship (ALCOD) has shifted its focus to advocating for absentee voting for expatriate Liberians. This strategic pivot follows consultations with eminent legal experts, aiming to formulate a robust campaign for out-of-country voting in line with constitutional and human rights considerations. ALCOD’s advocacy relies heavily on Article 80 Section ‘C’ of the 1986 Constitution, which underscores Liberian citizens’ rights to vote in their registered constituencies either in person or via absentee ballot.

During the recent Diaspora Liberians Annual Return 2024 event, ALCOD representatives engaged with constitutional and human rights lawyers to refine their advocacy methods concerning absentee voting. Their previous efforts included discussions with the National Elections Commission (NEC) and legislators focused on enabling diaspora Liberians to participate in the impending 2029 Presidential and Legislative Elections.

ALCOD has been advised to formally seek President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.’s position on absentee voting. Understanding the government’s stance on the definitions of “constituency” and “absentee ballot” under Article 80 ‘C’ is deemed critical for shaping an effective advocacy strategy. Counselor Tiawan Saye Gongloe, a notable human rights attorney, emphasized the necessity of official clarification to avoid potential challenges in the advocacy process.

To facilitate this initiative, ALCOD has entrusted its Eminent Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel S. Wettee, with leading the efforts to engage President Boakai regarding the necessary governmental definitions. Mr. Wettee is also tasked with coordinating outreach to other diaspora organizations to amplify their collective advocacy.

ALCOD has documented multiple interactions with NEC officials, reaffirming the Commission’s willingness to implement out-of-country voting—contingent upon the establishment of the appropriate systems and financial backing. Additionally, ALCOD has formed alliances with supportive lawmakers eager to work collaboratively to amend existing legislation to realize out-of-country voting.

The organization is now rallying diaspora Liberians to join this pivotal advocacy, akin to the successful campaigns for dual citizenship. ALCOD acknowledges contributions from other advocates, including Mr. Michael Mueller of the European Federation of Liberian Associations (EFLA) and Cllr. Jerome Verdier, who utilize alternative methods in support of absentee voting.

Since its inception in 2012, ALCOD has been at the forefront of advocating for both dual citizenship and out-of-country voting. The legislative victory for dual citizenship was solidified in July 2022, after extensive advocacy work, leading to new amendments in the Aliens and Nationality Law that protect Liberians’ citizenship rights. Following this landmark achievement, ALCOD reports considerable enthusiasm among dual citizens applying for free passports, anticipating that by the end of 2026, approximately 15,000 dual citizens will acquire their passports as well.

In summary, ALCOD is pivoting towards advocating for out-of-country voting for Liberians, building on legal principles outlined in the Constitution. Engaging with legal authorities and government leaders is vital for clarifying absentee voting policies. This advocacy mirrors past successes in securing dual citizenship, showing ALCOD’s dedication to diaspora rights. Their ongoing efforts and collaborative approach with lawmakers signal a proactive path forward for the inclusion of expatriate Liberians in national elections. Overall, ALCOD’s commitment to inclusivity highlights the importance of giving Liberians abroad a voice in the democratic process, promoting unity among all citizens regardless of their location.

Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com