Monrovia, Liberia— President Joe Boakai is facing mounting challenges nearly a year into his administration, with significant discontent emerging from some of his most prominent supporters. This discontent has culminated in renewed calls for impeachment, challenging Boakai’s leadership and his ability to maintain unity within the ruling Unity Party.
Notable among his critics is John Morlu, a former auditor general in Liberia who was instrumental in fundraising for Boakai’s campaign. Morlu has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the current administration and has rejected taking a position in the new Boakai government.
Similarly, former Finance Minister Amara Konneh, who played a key role in tabulating Boakai’s campaign votes, has shifted from supporter to critic. Despite his election as senator for Gbarpolu County, Konneh has openly criticized the ruling government, signaling a fracture in support that could pose a significant threat to Boakai’s administration.
Adding to the pressure is Matthew Nyanplu, a former deputy information minister and senior party member. Nyanplu, who resigned after exposing a scandal and subsequently faced suspension, has been vocal about his concerns regarding Boakai’s governance. His Facebook post detailing alleged treasonous actions by the President and his officials has particularly raised eyebrows.
Nyanplu claims that President Boakai and members of the Executive Branch have willfully violated the Constitution of Liberia by collaborating with a faction of lawmakers who are reportedly operating outside the bounds of the law. He cites Article 6 of the Constitution, which obligates public officials to uphold and defend it, and Article 76(a), which defines treason as any attempt to undermine the Constitution. He argues that by engaging with these lawmakers—who assembled illegally without the recognized Speaker of the House—Boakai is committing acts of treason against Liberia.
Furthermore, Nyanplu insists that the President’s actions warrant impeachment under Article 62 of the Constitution, which permits the removal of the President for treason, constitutional violations, or gross misconduct. He and other dissenters are now calling on the House of Representatives to initiate impeachment proceedings.
The call for impeachment has ignited a nationwide debate among citizens, with many expressing outrage at what they perceive as the President’s unlawful conduct. Amid growing unrest and demands for accountability, the spotlight is now on the House of Representatives to respond to these serious allegations and take appropriate action.
As the situation develops, the future of President Boakai’s leadership hangs in the balance, and many are left to wonder how he will navigate this increasingly tumultuous political landscape.
