The US Department of State has announced a new visa restriction policy for individuals and/or political actors undermining Democracy in Liberia.
The policy is under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act of the United States Government for those undermining democracy in the Republic of Liberia.
“Under this policy, the United States will pursue visa restrictions for those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Liberia, including through manipulation or rigging of the electoral process; use of violence to prevent people from exercising their rights to freedom of association and peaceful assembly; use of measures designed to prevent political parties, voters, civil society, or the media from disseminating their views; or engagement in any other activity designed to improperly influence the outcome of an election”, a press statement quotes Anthony J. Blenkin,.
According to the statement, certain family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions.
Mr. Blenkin is quoted as saying, “Persons who undermine democracy in Liberia—including in the lead-up to, during, and following Liberia’s 2023 elections—may be found ineligible for U.S. visas under this policy”.
The visa restriction policy announced on 27 September 2023, will apply to specific individuals and is not directed at the Liberian people or the Government of Liberia.
“The decision to impose visa restrictions reflects the commitment of the United States to support Liberians’ aspirations to have free and fair elections that demonstrate the will of the people and strengthen democracy and the rule of law”, the release concluded.
Link:
https://www.state.gov/visa-restriction-policy-on-undermining-democracy-in-liberia/#:~:text=Under%20this%20policy%2C%20the%20United,to%20freedom%20of%20association%20and
