Former Liberian Auditor General, Mr. John S. Morlu, has called on President Boakai to take action and address the challenges facing Liberia, stating that he has been “sleeping too long.” Mr. Morlu expressed appreciation for the United States and emphasized the importance of Liberia’s relationship with America. However, he criticized a few individuals, particularly Robtel and her supporters, for allegedly not appreciating America.
According to Mr. Morlu, the vast majority of Liberians, around 99.999%, appreciate America and believe that it has contributed more to Liberia than it has received. He referred to President Boakai’s own acknowledgment in 2017 that Liberian leaders have “wasted opportunities.” Mr. Morlu also highlighted a specific incident in 1987 where millions of dollars in PL 480 were mismanaged, resulting in the misuse of American taxpayers’ money.
The 177th Independence Orator Dr. Robtel Paley, in Mr. MOLorlu’s view, blames America for the misappropriation and mishandling of foreign aid by Liberian leaders. He claimed that since 1946, America has provided Liberia with $20.8 billion, but these funds have been mismanaged by incompetent and corrupt officials who lack concern for their fellow citizens. Mr. Morlu listed various contributions from America, including the building of Liberia’s military and police, provision of water and electricity, establishment of the Voice of America (VOA) services, a CIA spy post, and $4.9 billion in debt relief. He also stated that America finances 75% of Liberia’s healthcare, education, and basic infrastructure. Moreover, he credited America for its role in ending the Ebola crisis, providing free COVID-19 drugs, resolving the civil war, and accepting the majority of Liberian refugees who now contribute to the American economy and support Liberia through remittances.
Mr. Morlu criticized an inexperienced and unskilled PhD holder from an unknown school who claimed that America has taken more from Liberia than it has given. He argued that her statement was ignorant and uninformed, lacking any math, economic, or financial analysis to support her claims. Mr. Morlu questioned her understanding of the geopolitical and economic benefits of being allied with America, highlighting her lack of real-world work experience and a practical skill set. He further expressed his right to criticize her statements as “bullshit, incompetent, and foolish,” invoking the concept of free speech.
Mr. Morlu also raised concerns about the JNB administration, pointing out a series of crises and allegations of corruption, illegal acts, and backdoor dealings. He questioned whether the administration’s agenda truly aligns with a “Rescue Mission” or if it is another scheme to defraud Liberia and its people. Mr. Morlu urged President Boakai to rise to the occasion and questioned whether the administration represents the vision spoken about by JNB Costa and Urey. He criticized President Boakai’s decision to align himself with an inexperienced orator, referring to Robtel. He also accused Robtel of harboring dislike for Liberians living in America who are successful.
Mr. Morlu emphasized the economic benefits of America’s visible presence in any country, claiming that it adds at least 25% to the nation’s GDP. He cited examples such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Germany, and Djibouti. Mr. Morlu expressed disappointment in Liberia’s failure to capitalize on the opportunities presented by America’s presence, contrasting it with Ghana’s success in the US tourism market. He attributed this failure to the incompetence, neglect, and corruption of Liberian leaders.
In conclusion, Mr. Morlu praised former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s advocacy for America to establish its Africa military command in Liberia, recognizing the potential stability, credibility, and investor confidence it could bring. He questioned whether President Boakai shares the same understanding of the geopolitical and political economy benefits or if he is surrounded by individuals with limited perspectives. Mr. Morlu called on President Boakai to rise up and stand up, while also expressing gratitude to the Information Minister for distancing the Boakai government from the oratory he deemed nonsensical.
