MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Liberian Government has nullified a vote cast on its behalf, rejecting a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza War.
On December 12, a member of the Liberia UN Mission voted in a UN General Assembly Resolution, calling for a ceasefire in Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza.
However, announcing the Government of Liberia’s official position on the situation, Information Minister, Ledgerhood Rennie, told VOA on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, that Liberia’s diplomats at the UN did not consult with President George Weah, who has always stood on the side of peace.
Minister Rennie however, clarified that the latest decision does not affect the bilateral relations between Liberia and the United States that vetoed the resolution.
The Information Minister maintained that President Weah, the Chief Architect of the Country’s Foreign Policy, is a champion of war and peace, as such, he would do nothing to change such narrative.
Meanwhile, Liberia’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, Sarah Fyneah, has clarified that the Liberian Government’s initial vote on the UN resolution was based on a prior directive from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ambassador Fyneah said:” The Ministry’s instruction, unfortunately, contradicted President Weah and the Government’s established stance.”
According to her, the discrepancy has raised concerns about misrepresentation, prompting a need for the President to seek clarification from the Foreign Ministry.
Ambassador Fyneah stressed that the responsibility for the inaccurate directive lies with the Foreign Ministry, and not to tarnish the reputation of Liberia’s diplomats at the UN who, despite challenges, continue to make sacrifices for the Country’s visibility and contributions to the UN’s mandate.
Ambassador Sarah Fyneah indicated that the lack of communication on the part of the Foreign Ministry to the Mission on such a crucial issue further underscores the need for a thorough review and clarification.
