The 24th President of Liberia who made hisotry as Africa’s first woman president, madam Ellen Eugenia Johnson-Sirleaf, has sparked a national debate.
Addressing lawmakers on Capitol Hill in Monrovia, Johnson-Sirleaf called for an amendment of Article 27(b) of the Liberian Constitution, which would eventually give way for white people to become citizens of Liberia, if repealed. Johnson-Sirleaf, who served as president for 12 years from 2006 to 2018, claimed, “this provision is racist.”
What does 27(b) say?
“…In order to preserve, foster and maintain the positive Liberian culture, values and character, only persons who are Negroes or of Negro descent shall qualify by birth or by naturalization to be citizens of Liberia.”
With a population of 5.2 million according to LISGIS, most citizens still struggle to earn a living amid widespread poverty and unemployment.
Will Johnson-Sirleaf’s latest advocacy for a change of 27(b) make any difference if considered? Feel free to share your thoughts.
