By K. Ericson Sayee

MONROVIA, July 31 (LINA) – Liberia’s former President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has underscored the need for Liberians to adopt a comprehensive strategy to tackle corruption, as she recommends the need for the nation to promote early childhood education.

Madam Sirleaf emphasized that if the country embarks on early childhood education and discipline as well as adopting a culture of honesty and integrity, Liberians will stand a better chance to defeat corruption.

Appearing on the ELBC program "Changing Minds and Changing Attitude" on Tuesday 30, July 2024, Madam Sirleaf noted that the process of promoting early childhood education will help in the ongoing fight against corruption.

According to Madam Sirleaf, corruption is ingrained in every sector of the Liberian society, ranging from the private to the public sectors, and as such, it requires all hands-on-deck.

She argued that Liberians must alter the way they see corruption as something that only the government can fight.

"The fight against corruption requires more than exposure and punishment; it demands a cultural shift towards discipline and patriotism," the former Liberian leader noted.

Madam Sirleaf, who served as Africa’s first female head of state, said if Liberians come together in unity to fight against corruption, Liberia will triumph over the scourge.

Madam Sirleaf further stated that the enforcement of law is not the only way to tackle corruption, saying that the cultivation of a culture of ethical attributes will help to mitigate corruption.

Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf added that Liberia has resources to better the lives of its people, calling on both government and citizens to employ honesty and integrity in whatever they do for the betterment of the country.

She underscored the importance of a collective effort and approach to drive the nation to achieving its goals, emphasizing that discipline and unified effort are paramount for the country's progress.

"Corruption undermines the nation's progress, so as patriots, we must all commit ourselves to our country’s success," the astute stateswoman disclosed.

Meanwhile, Madam Sirleaf also called on the young people of Liberia to cherish and love their nation by involving with things that will drive the country to development.

She highlighted that integrity should be one of the greatest things the nation's young people should thrive upon, adding that integrity and discipline are key to the progress of the country.

The former President then advised that for any country to experience massive development, young people are key in achieving such gains.

"Young people must recognize that they are essential to the building of their country. They should be good patriots, loving your country, contributing to its progress. Avoid things that will paint the country black," she emphasized.