President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has commended the resilience of the Liberian people for their decisive role in rescuing the country from the previous CDC-led administration during the 2023 elections. Speaking over the weekend at a welcome ceremony and town hall meeting organized by the Liberian community in Staten Island, New York, the President reflected on the critical juncture Liberia faced.
“If the previous government had remained in power for even two more years, Liberia would be a very different place today,” President Boakai stated, emphasizing that the nation was already spiraling into chaos with deteriorating conditions for its citizens.
He asserted that it is the responsibility of every government to uphold the dignity of its people by providing essential services such as quality healthcare, education, infrastructure, and reliable energy. “These are basic rights that every Liberian deserves,” he added.
The President criticized the former administration for its failure to meet the needs of the Liberian populace, asserting that well-meaning citizens, including those in the diaspora, could not stand by while their country suffered. He referenced the Biblical text from James 4:17, stating, “He who knows how to do good, but fails, is guilty of sin,” to highlight the moral imperative for action.
In his address, President Boakai assured attendees that his administration is committed to transforming Liberia for the benefit of both citizens and foreigners residing in the country. “We want to build a nation that is inviting for Liberians and their families abroad, so that when they come home, they will never want to leave,” he remarked.
The President reminisced about key actions taken in the early days of his administration, including signing the Code of Conduct, declaring his assets, undergoing a drug test to demonstrate his commitment to combating drug abuse, and issuing Executive Order 131 to establish war and economic crimes courts.
Regarding the establishment of the War Crimes Court, President Boakai emphasized the need for accountability for atrocities committed during Liberia’s civil wars. He poignantly reminded the audience of the ongoing suffering endured by victims, stating, “Many perpetrators of crimes against the Liberian people are still in leadership positions while their victims continue to endure pain.”
He reassured the public that the War Crimes Court is not intended as a tool for witch-hunts, but rather as an opportunity for healing, allowing accusers and the accused to confront their pasts and seek resolution.
Additionally, President Boakai underscored his administration’s efforts to attract global investors to Liberia, emphasizing that any investment must prioritize the interests of the Liberian people. “Investors will be held to strict standards in the best interest of our citizens,” he stated.
The President and his team are in New York for several days, where he will address the UN General Assembly and launch Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
