LECTIONS 2023: Know Your Candidate – Profile Of Sheikh Al-moustapha Kouyateh

Another Liberian businessman turned politician, and now a presidential candidate for the upcoming October 10, 2023 is Sheikh Al-moustapha Kouyateh, political leader of the Liberia First Movement (LFM) has vowed to transform Liberia when elected during the October, 2023 polls.

The outspoken Liberian politician declared his intention to run for President on March 24, 2023, at a well-attended news conference in Monrovia held at the Providence Baptized Church on Ashmun Street, Monrovia, Liberia.

Speaking to reporters, the political leader of the Liberia First Movement used the occasion to appeal to all Liberians to reject any form of violence, intimidation, or incitement during this critical period. We urge the ruling party to immediately cease all provocative actions and engage in constructive dialogue with other political parties to foster a peaceful electoral environment.

He disclosed that his movement is committed to the principles of democracy, justice, and the well-being of all Liberians, we reiterate our condemnation of the breach of the Farmington Agreement and our dedication to upholding the democratic values that our nation holds dear. Stressing, “We remain vigilant in our pursuit of a fair and transparent electoral process, and we call upon all Liberians to stand together in rejecting any attempts to undermine our democracy”.

Kouyateh who contested twice for the senatorial seat of Montserrado County and lost both in the 2011 and 2017 Presidential and legislative elections said he decided to run for President because he believes he can unite and make a conformational change in the lives of Liberians.

In one of his quest to the Liberian people, Candidate Kouyateh spoke on several issues that affected the country and its people as mentioned below:

Dear Fellow Compatriots:

I write to you today with a heavy heart, burdened by the growing insecurity, fraud, and lack of accountability that plagues our beloved nation. It is with deep concern that I inform you of the flagrant breaches and violations of electoral regulations and the Farmington Agreement by the ruling party, led by President George Weah. As we stand on the precipice of an important election, we find ourselves confronted with a disheartening reality – a reality that threatens the democratic principles and values we hold dear.

With less than two months remaining until the election date, the National Election Commission (NEC) has failed to disclose crucial information regarding the registration process. We are left in the dark about the individuals who registered under age, those who registered more than once, and other irregularities that undermine the integrity of our electoral system. This lack of transparency erodes our trust in the process and casts doubt on the fairness of the upcoming election.

Moreover, the presence of sanctioned candidates in the race is a clear indication that the election is not about democratic leadership and justice for Liberia’s forward march. It is disheartening to witness the disregard for the rule of law and the blatant violation of electoral regulations. We cannot allow our nation’s future to be dictated by those who have proven themselves unworthy of our trust.

In light of these disturbing developments, Liberia First Movement demands that the National Election Commission upholds democratic leadership and the rule of law. It is imperative that the NEC addresses the concerns raised by the public and provides clarity on the issues at hand. The integrity of our electoral process must be safeguarded, and we cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the violations that have taken place.

Furthermore, we call upon President George Weah to respect the constitution of Liberia and separate the government from the campaign process. It is crucial that the campaign is conducted in a fair and impartial manner, free from the influence of state institutions. Independent institutions of integrity and their leadership must not be involved in the campaign, as their role should be to ensure the integrity of the election, not to advance the interests of any particular candidate or party.

Fellow compatriots, it is our collective responsibility to hold our leaders accountable and demand the preservation of democratic principles in our nation. Let us stand united in the face of these challenges and work towards a future where justice, transparency, and accountability prevail. Together, we can chart a path towards a better Liberia, where the will of the people is respected, and our great nation can flourish.

May God bless Liberia and guide us on the path to a brighter future.

Yours sincerely,

Sheikh Al-moustapha Kouyateh

His quest as one of Liberia’s presidential candidates in these elections seems overwhelming as many perceived him as one of those youthful Liberians who this country at heart

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