MONROVIA, LIBERIA-ECOWAS Ambassador to Liberia, Josephine Nkrumah, has called on Liberians to take personal responsibility in strengthening accountability and democratic governance.
Speaking at a one-day intergenerational Dialogue on Friday, March 2026, Ambassador Nkrumah stressed that accountability begins with individuals and not only government officials.
She noted that citizens often blame leaders for corruption, while ignoring everyday actions such as bribery, lateness, and disregard for rules.
According to her, such behaviors contribute to weak governance, emphasizing that leaders are a reflection of society.
Madam Nkrumah urged citizens to demonstrate discipline, integrity, and respect for laws in their daily lives.
However, the ECOWAS Ambassador highlighted concerns about poor public attitudes toward sanitation and the maintenance of public facilities, noting that citizens must take ownership of their environment.
Ambassador Nkrumah concluded that without individual accountability, efforts to promote good governance and transparency will remain ineffective.
At the same time, the ECOWAS Ambassador to Liberia, Josephine Nkrumah, has encouraged young people to take the lead in promoting accountability and shaping the future of democratic governance.
Ambassador Nkrumah said,” Young people represent a significant portion of the population in West Africa and must prepare themselves to assume leadership roles responsibly”.
She noted that, while there is growing frustration and loss of trust in democratic systems globally, young people have greater access to information and platforms such as social media to influence change.
The ECOWAS Ambassador emphasized the importance of civic education, stating that teaching values of responsibility, patriotism, and accountability from an early age is essential for national development.
She urged the youth to adopt a solution-driven mindset, use their voices responsibly, and avoid repeating cycles of poor governance when given leadership opportunities.
Ambassador Nkrumah described the current generation as uniquely positioned to drive positive change and called on them to act with integrity and purpose.
For his part, Naymote Partners for Democratic Development Executive Director Eddie Jarwolo called for strengthened accountability and trust in Liberia’s democratic governance.
Making opening remarks at a forum, Director Jarwolo stressed the need for integrity and responsible leadership across all sectors of society.
The Naymote boss highlighted the importance of building public trust in democratic institutions, noting that accountability remains a key pillar in ensuring effective governance.
He also emphasized the role of intergenerational leadership, urging both young and older citizens to work collaboratively in promoting transparency and national development.
According to Director Jarwolo, fostering a culture of accountability requires commitment from citizens, institutions, and leaders alike, adding that sustainable democracy depends on active civic participation.
He encouraged Liberians, especially young people, to remain engaged in governance processes and uphold values that promote integrity and national progress.