The United States remains dedicated to promoting democracy both in Liberia and worldwide. To this end, a new visa restriction policy is being introduced under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, aimed at individuals who are undermining democratic processes in Liberia. This policy will be implemented in anticipation of the upcoming election.
Under this policy, the United States will pursue visa restrictions for individuals who are believed to be actively involved in or complicit in undermining democracy in Liberia. This may include actions such as manipulating or rigging the electoral process, deploying violence to obstruct people from exercising their rights to freedom of assembly and association, implementing measures to obstruct political parties, voters, civil society, or media from expressing their views, or engaging in any other activities designed to inappropriately influence the election's outcome. Furthermore, certain family members of these individuals may also be subject to these restrictions. Individuals found to undermine democracy in Liberia, particularly concerning the 2023 elections, may be ineligible for U.S. visas under this policy. It's important to emphasize that this visa restriction policy pertains to specific individuals and is not directed at the Liberian people or the Government of Liberia. The decision to impose visa restrictions underscores the United States' commitment to supporting the aspirations of the Liberian population for free and fair elections that truly represent the will of the people, thereby strengthening democracy and the rule of law.
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