November 1, 2024The Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS) is pleased to announce the successful completion of local leadership elections across its 91 branches and 15 chapters. These elections represent a critical step in reinforcing the organization’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive leadership at all levels.
The recent local governance elections saw the election of 578 individuals, including 382 males and 196 females, into various leadership positions, such as Branch Coordinators, Assistant Coordinators, Treasurers, and Youth Representatives. These leaders will play a pivotal role in providing oversight, shaping policies, and setting the strategic direction for the LNRCS.
At the chapter level, 92 people were elected through a transparent and credible secret voting process. Elected positions include Chapter Chairpersons, Vice Chairpersons (First, Second, and Third), Treasurers, and Youth Representatives. With 57% male and 43% female representation, the elections marked significant progress toward achieving gender parity in LNRCS leadership.
This diverse and inclusive leadership team not only represents a wide range of religious backgrounds but also includes individuals with different abilities. The newly elected leaders are poised to explore opportunities that will enhance the LNRCS’s capacity to deliver humanitarian services at the grassroots level, reinforcing our mission to alleviate human suffering wherever it is found.
Looking Ahead: The 2024 General Assembly
With local leadership elections concluded, the LNRCS is now gearing up for its highly anticipated General Assembly (GA) in December 2024. The GA, held every two years as the National Society’s highest decision-making body, will focus on electing a new national leadership team to steer the organization for the next four years, as outlined in Article 6, Section 3 of the LNRCS 2018 Constitution.
Key positions to be filled at the GA include National President, three Regional Vice Presidents, National Treasurer, and National Youth Representatives. The upcoming elections are expected to be highly competitive, as the current president, Mr. Jerome Clarke, will not seek re-election after serving two successful terms over eight years. His departure signals a fresh chapter for the LNRCS, with new leadership and perspectives set to drive the organization forward.
During the GA, Mr. Clarke will present his final report, highlighting key achievements and challenges from his tenure, along with recommendations for future action. Reports from the Secretary-General on management operations and activities, and from the National Treasurer on budgets, income, expenditures, and balances, will also be presented. In addition, Regional Vice Presidents and constitutional committees may have the opportunity to provide reports.
A Milestone for the LNRCS
The recent local elections and the upcoming General Assembly underscore the LNRCS’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its governance structure, ensuring transparency, and promoting inclusivity across all levels of leadership. The LNRCS is confident that the newly elected local leaders and the future national team will continue to uphold the core humanitarian principles of the LNRCS, enhancing its ability to respond effectively to the needs of vulnerable communities.
As we look toward the future, we invite all stakeholders and partners to stay engaged and support the LNRCS in its mission to serve humanity with compassion, integrity, and dedication.
