On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I want to congratulate the Liberian people for exercising their right to vote in their presidential and legislative elections. These historic elections are important milestones on Liberia's path towards consolidating its democracy. The United States congratulates President Sirleaf on her re-election and we will continue to work with her and all elected officials to advance democracy, and promote peace and prosperity.
The United States commends the National Elections Commission for conducting free, fair, and transparent elections. We applaud the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union and others for sending observers to monitor the elections, as well as the UN Mission in Liberia for promoting security during the electoral process.
The violence on November 7th marred this otherwise peaceful process, so we welcome the creation of a Special Independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate the incident. We are also deeply disappointed by the Congress for Democratic Change’s decision to boycott the run-off election. We urge all political parties to respect the election results, and resolve their differences peacefully and in accordance with the Liberian constitution.
The United States is a long standing friend of the Liberian people and we are committed to their future. Congratulations on this momentous occasion.
