В Германии пройдет выборы руководства либерийской диаспоры: кандидат призывает к единству

MONROVIA — Liberians residing in Germany are preparing for a closely watched election Saturday, Aug. 15, that will determine the next leadership of the Liberian Association in Germany, with presidential candidate Samuel Yorsen Wesseh making unity, inclusion and institutional reform central to his campaign. With preparations reportedly finalized, members of the Liberian community are expected to vote for a new leadership to steer the association and strengthen its role as a collective voice and support system for Liberians across Germany. At the center of the contest is Wesseh, who is campaigning on a platform that also promises stronger engagement with the German and Liberian governments and greater institutional support for Liberians facing legal, integration, social and emergency challenges. Speaking in a mobile phone interview Tuesday, Wesseh urged Liberians across Germany to put aside their differences, participate in the election and embrace a common vision for strengthening the diaspora community. Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn "Now is the time for Liberians in Germany to unite and actively participate in the democratic process," Wesseh said. "Our community is strongest when we work together to address common challenges and create opportunities for one another." Wesseh said his administration, if elected, would seek to build a more cohesive and responsive association capable of addressing the diverse needs of Liberians living across Germany. He brings professional and public service experience to the race, including previous service within Liberia's diplomatic circles and the Liberia National Police. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in management and a master's degree in peace and development studies, along with several professional certifications. Wesseh said his professional and academic background has prepared him to lead the association through what he hopes will be a new period of institutional growth and cooperation. A major component of his platform is fostering unity among Liberians from different counties, ethnic groups and backgrounds living in Germany. He said the community's diversity should serve as a source of strength rather than division. If elected, Wesseh said his leadership would work to make LAD a more influential institution capable of advocating for Liberians and strengthening collaboration with German authorities and the Liberian Embassy in Germany. He also pledged to pursue full nonprofit status for the association, strengthen its institutional credibility and introduce training opportunities to enable members to professionally represent the Liberian community. "Our goal is to transform the association into a respected diplomatic and community partner that can effectively engage stakeholders on issues affecting Liberians," Wesseh said. His platform also includes strengthening Liberia-Germany relations through people-to-people connections, business initiatives and cultural exchanges. Wesseh said an organized diaspora community could serve as an important bridge between the two countries by promoting investment opportunities, facilitating trade relationships and supporting educational and professional exchanges. He maintained that Liberians in Germany should play a stronger role in protecting the rights and welfare of community members while contributing to Liberia's development through organized diaspora engagement. As Saturday's vote approaches, Wesseh said he believes the election offers an opportunity to move beyond choosing new officers and toward strengthening the collective purpose of Liberians across Germany. "The August 15 election has the potential to bring our entire community together and set a new stage for unity, progress, and meaningful engagement," he said. Attention now turns to Liberian voters across Germany as they prepare to decide who will lead the association into its next chapter.