“Don’t Let Politics Divide Us”: Youth Activist Calls on Liberian Youth to Protect Peace

Monrovia – As Liberia joins the global community to commemorate the International Day of Peace, the Founder of the African Youth Fellowship (AYF-Liberia), Amb. Moses N. Buwee, has called on young Liberians to protect the country’s hard-earned peace and ensure that political differences do not become a source of division among citizens. Amb. Buwee said Liberia’s peace is a responsibility that must be protected by every generation, particularly young people who make up a significant part of the country’s population. He urged young Liberians to embrace tolerance, dialogue, respect for differing opinions, and national unity, stressing that political affiliation should never be allowed to destroy relationships, communities, or the country’s progress. “***Don’t let politics divide us. We can support different political ideas, belong to different political parties, and still remain brothers and sisters as Liberians. Our political differences should never be greater than our love for Liberia,*****” Amb. Buwee said.

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By Patience Jones

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He encouraged young people to use their voices responsibly, particularly on social media, where political discussions can quickly influence public opinion. He urged young Liberians to reject messages that promote hatred, violence, intolerance, misinformation, or division and instead use digital platforms to promote peace, dialogue, understanding, and positive national engagement.

The AYF Founder also praised the Government of Liberia for its continued efforts toward maintaining peace and stability in the country. He particularly commended the Ministry of Youth and Sports and development partners for creating and supporting opportunities that enable young Liberians to develop their skills, discover their potential, and participate more meaningfully in national development.

According to Amb. Buwee, the opening of more opportunities for young people is an important part of building a peaceful and prosperous Liberia. He said young people who have access to education, skills development, employment, entrepreneurship, leadership opportunities, and civic participation are better positioned to contribute positively to their communities and country.

“We commend the Government of Liberia, especially the Ministry of Youth and Sports, for the efforts being made to create opportunities for our young people. When we open doors for young people, we are not only investing in their future; we are investing in the future of Liberia,” he stated.

Amb. Buwee emphasized that celebrating peace should go hand in hand with investing in the people who will sustain it. He noted that Liberia’s peace must be supported by practical opportunities for young people to learn, work, lead, and contribute to society. He called for increased investment in education, vocational and technical training, entrepreneurship, employment, mentorship, and youth participation in peacebuilding and decision-making. He also drew attention to the challenges facing young people who are vulnerable to drug abuse and other social difficulties. He said these young Liberians need special attention and should not be abandoned or defined only by their circumstances. Instead, he called for stronger rehabilitation, mentorship, skills development, psychosocial support, education, and economic opportunities to help them rebuild their lives.

“Some of our young people are struggling with drugs and other difficult circumstances. We must not abandon them. They are still part of Liberia, and they have potential. We need to give them the support, rehabilitation, skills, and opportunities they need to become productive citizens,” he said.

The AYF Founder called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, communities, development partners, and the private sector to address the challenges confronting vulnerable young people. He said youth should not only be viewed as beneficiaries of development programs but also as partners and leaders in peacebuilding and national development. Amb. Buwee further praised Liberians from different sectors who continue to contribute to maintaining peace and stability in the country. He said sustaining peace requires collective responsibility and urged citizens not to take Liberia’s peace for granted.

As the country marks the International Day of Peace, he encouraged young Liberians to reflect on Liberia’s history and the sacrifices made to achieve peace. He urged them to become ambassadors of peace in their homes, schools, communities, workplaces, and online spaces.

“***Liberia belongs to all of us. We may disagree politically, but we must never allow our political differences to destroy our unity. Let us protect the peace, support one another, and give our young people the opportunity to become part of Liberia’s solution,*****” Amb. Buwee concluded.

He reaffirmed the African Youth Fellowship’s commitment to engaging, empowering, and transforming young people and called on all Liberians to work together to build a country where young people have hope, opportunity, dignity, and a meaningful role in shaping Liberia’s future.