MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The United States Government has threatened to institute VISA restriction against individuals held liable for election-related violence in any democratic nation.
According to a US Dispatch, adherence to democratic norms and the rule of law allows all citizens to engage in political dialogue, and support their choice of candidates, parties and platforms.
The Dispatch said the US Government is seriously concerned about Africa’s democratic path, as a long-time partner to African nations.
The United States said it remains committed to working along with international and regional partners, to maintain peace and stability.
Meanwhile, democratic nations in Africa and other parts of the world have been urged to support free, fair and inclusive elections.
Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and the United States, among others, are poised for elections this year, based on their respective constitutional provisions.
A Dispatch quotes the US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, as saying the conduct of elections is important not only for Africans, but also defenders of democracy around the world.
According to the Dispatch, the United States has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting free, fair and inclusive elections, urging all sides to peacefully participate in democratic processes.
It added that repression and intimidation have no place in democracies, adding the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression and association are the nature of functioning democracy.
