MONROVIA, Liberia — Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has called on Liberia to reduce its reliance on American models and develop national policies and institutions that are more responsive to the country’s own needs, circumstances, and aspirations.
Sirleaf made the remarks on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, while speaking to journalists in Monrovia following her participation in a day-long symposium organized by the Governance Commission as part of activities marking Liberia’s Month of Good Governance.
“We have to stop following the United States of America. Let’s join the new era of sovereignty, respectability,” Sirleaf said.
Her comments centered on the importance of national ownership, self-reliance, and institutional development as Liberia considers its future in a changing global environment.
The former Liberian leader argued that the country must take greater responsibility for determining its own development priorities rather than continuing to depend heavily on foreign models and approaches.
According to Sirleaf, Liberia’s governance and development strategies should reflect the country’s unique history, challenges, resources, and aspirations. She emphasized that changing global realities provide an opportunity for Liberia to reassess traditional approaches and pursue a path grounded more firmly in national sovereignty.
The former President’s remarks came during activities marking the Month of Good Governance, which the Governance Commission is observing under the theme “Promoting Accountability and Transparency in Governance.” The Commission’s October program includes national dialogues, public engagement and other activities focused on strengthening accountability, transparency, integrity, and citizen participation.
Sirleaf’s call adds to the broader national conversation on how Liberia can strengthen its institutions and ensure that governance reforms translate into greater national ownership and improved public service delivery.
The symposium at the Governance Commission’s headquarters on 3rd Street, Sinkor, brought attention to the country’s governance history and the continuing relevance of institutional reforms in shaping Liberia’s future.