U.S. Implements Visa Restrictions to Safeguard Democracy in Liberia

By Uzman Unis Bah

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In a significant move aimed at preserving and advancing democracy in Liberia, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken announced a comprehensive visa restriction policy designed to target individuals undermining the democratic process in the West African nation.

Under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the United States will swiftly implement visa restrictions against those believed to be involved in activities detrimental to country's democratic principles. This policy comes into effect ahead the upcoming elections on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, marking a pivotal moment in U.S.-Liberia relations.

Secretary Blinken's announcement outlined the primary objectives of the policy, focusing on actions that undermine the democratic process - including manipulation or rigging of elections, deploying violence to obstruct citizens from exercising their right to peaceful assembly, employing measures to suppress political parties, voters, civil society, or the media, and engaging in activities to influence election outcomes.

Notably, family members of individuals involved in such activities may also face visa restrictions. This ban will be enforced during the lead-up to, throughout, and after Liberia's crucial 2023 elections.

Secretary Blinken stressed that this visa restriction policy is not directed at the Liberian people or the Government of Liberia but intends to hold accountable those responsible for undermining the democratic foundations of the nation. The United States has consistently supported Liberia's aspirations for free and fair elections that genuinely reflect the people's will, reinforcing democratic values and the rule of law.

Similar restrictions issued after the June 24 election 2023 in Sierra Leone 

A Press Statement from the U.S State Department of State, affairms "United States will pursue visa restrictions for those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Sierra Leone, including through the manipulation or rigging of the electoral process; intimidation of voters, election observers, or civil society organizations through threats or acts of physical violence; or the abuse or violation of related human rights in Sierra Leone. Family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions. Persons who undermine the democratic process in Sierra Leone—including in the lead-up to, during, and following Sierra Leone’s 2023 elections—may be found ineligible for U.S. visas under this policy.”

In elucidating the recent democratic developments in Liberia and Sierra Leone, Chatham House posits, "Peace is fragile, and credible elections are essential if the countries are to see another twenty years of democratic government and the orderly transition of power."

Approval with the way democracy is working has declined across Africa, undermining citizens’ confidence in democratic governance, Afrobarometer CEO Joseph Asunka revealed at the Africa Drive for Democracy Conference – Elders Retreat in Arusha, Tanzania.

The move by the U.S. government reaffirms its commitment to Liberia's democratic journey and serves as a warning to those who may seek to disrupt the electoral process. By implementing targeted visa restrictions, the United States aims to bolster efforts to hold transparent and credible elections, ultimately strengthening the democratic framework in the nation.

The international community peeks closely as these measures take effect, hoping the effort will contribute to a more democratic and stable Liberia.