By Wondah L. Jah, Liberian Political Observer
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – In just three months since his election, Liberia’s new President Joseph Boakai of the Unity Party government has experienced a significant decline in popularity. The once-promising “Secure Train,” launched with the aim of rescuing Liberians from the alleged suffering inflicted by the previous George Weah Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) government, is now facing mounting challenges.
Boakai, with his impressive 45-year government experience, previously served as Vice President in Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s government. However, during that time, millions of dollars from public resources were reportedly misappropriated. Despite this, Boakai had managed to portray himself as a used car parking, alleging that he was sidelined by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and taking credit for the government’s successes while denying any wrongdoing.
Many Liberians had hoped that Boakai’s experience would lead the country to prosperity and new heights. However, three months into his presidency, the man from Lofa seems to be struggling to make progress. The formation of his government remains incomplete, leaving civil servants without salaries for three months. This delay has tested the patience of the Liberian people, and even some of Boakai’s top supporters are abandoning him.
Critics argue that Boakai is bringing in individuals with known criminal records, raising concerns about his commitment to good governance. Furthermore, he has been accused of attempting to deceive Americans by publicly declaring support for the establishment of a war crimes court while secretly protecting war and economic criminals. This has led to threats of sanctions against his government for manipulating the war crimes court issue.
One particular incident that has tarnished Boakai’s image is his alleged attempt to shield war crimes suspect Gen. Prince Y. Johnson, who enjoys significant support from Ninba County. After his election, Boakai seemingly distanced himself from the Ninba people, which has resulted in their growing discontent and the threat of action against his government. Negative narratives about Boakai dominate the local radios, and his name has been dragged through the mud like never before.
These developments have left many Liberians puzzled by the rapid decline in President Boakai’s image. The question arises: is the rescue train being derailed before it even took off? The uncertainty surrounding Boakai’s government, coupled with the looming threat of sanctions, paints a grim picture for the future of Liberia under his leadership. Only time will tell if President Boakai can reverse this decline and regain the trust and support of his constituents.
The Joseph Boakai Embarrassment: Lack of Charisma and Impetus Becomes Clearer
As the days pass, the embarrassment surrounding Liberia’s President Joseph Boakai becomes increasingly evident. Following in the footsteps of the charismatic former football superstar George Weah, Boakai’s lack of charisma and impetus is becoming clearer. Weah had the ability to captivate even those who disliked him, with his ability to connect with communities through dancing and singing. However, it seems that this is not what the Liberian people truly desired.
Liberians yearned for a serious leader, someone who would bring about meaningful change for the better. Boakai made promises to break free from corruption and the usual behaviors seen in government, but it appears that these were merely schemes to secure votes. Instead of upholding his promises, Boakai has reinstated Liberian crooks, including individuals who are known thieves and have been implicated in auditing reports.
Mistake after mistake, the Boakai government continues to make blunders that further tarnish its reputation. According to sources, through his actions or lack thereof, Boakai is inadvertently promoting the Weah spirit to the point where some Liberians still consider Weah as their true leader, even in the presence of President Boakai. This raises questions about who is truly in charge and whether someone is taking advantage of Boakai’s position.
Adding fuel to the fire, the new government is setting the stage to dismiss hundreds of Liberians who were believed to have been employed by the Weah regime. This decision has ignited conflict, with the opposition party, the CDC, threatening to take action if Liberians are forced out of their jobs.
The state of affairs surrounding President Boakai’s UP Rescue Train is in turmoil. Liberians are left wondering if Boakai is truly in charge or if someone else is pulling the strings behind the scenes. The government’s actions, including the potential dismissal of loyal employees, have created a volatile situation that could lead to unrest.
As the Boakai administration continues to disappoint and fail to deliver on its promises, Liberians are left questioning the future of their country and the leadership it deserves. It is crucial for President Boakai to exhibit true leadership, address the concerns of the people, and bring about the change that Liberia so desperately needs.
(Windah L. Nah is a Liberian political observer who closely monitors developments in the country’s political landscape.)
