-Accuses President Boakai of Undermining Democracy
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Tensions flared in Liberia’s political landscape today as the Revolutionary National Youth League of the CDC launched a blistering attack against President Boakai and his administration, accusing them of orchestrating an “attempted coup d’etat” to remove Speaker J. Fonatti Koffa. Speaking at a packed press conference at CDC headquarters, Acting Youth League Chair Eddie S. Tarawali did not mince words, directly accusing President Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung of engaging in a blatant power grab by allegedly using over 1.5 million in state funds to bribe lawmakers and secure the Speaker’s removal.
Tarawali painted a stark picture of a nation teetering on the edge of authoritarianism, characterizing the alleged actions as a “desperate political subterfuge” fueled by a “reckless” desire to establish one-party rule in Liberia. He warned that such blatant disregard for democratic norms not only threatened Liberia’s fragile democracy but also set a dangerous precedent for the future, potentially unraveling years of progress. The Youth League issued a passionate plea to all lawmakers, urging them to stand firm against what they termed President Boakai’s dangerous ambition to create an “imperial presidency” by seizing control of the legislature and silencing any opposition.
The Youth League leadership mounted a staunch defense of Speaker Koffa, praising him as a dedicated public servant and a true “nationalist” who has shown unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of the legislature throughout his tenure. They argued that his removal, orchestrated through alleged bribery and manipulation, would be a devastating blow to Liberia’s hard-won democratic credibility, sending a chilling message to international observers and potentially damaging the country’s image on the global stage.
In a show of intra-party solidarity, the Youth League also commended Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah for his unwavering loyalty, highlighting his steadfast support for both Speaker Koffa and the CDC as a whole. Holding up Fallah as a shining example of party unity and principled conduct, they called upon all CDC members and lawmakers to follow his lead in defending the party and its values during this critical juncture in Liberia’s political landscape.
The ongoing political turmoil has also forced the Youth League to adjust its plans for the future. Citing the volatile situation at the Capitol and the need to prioritize the participation of key lawmakers, the organization announced the postponement of their highly anticipated retreat. Originally scheduled for October 29 – November 3, 2024, the event has been pushed back to November 14-17, 2024, and will now take place in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County. Samuel T. Wantoe, Chairman of the Steering Committee for the retreat, explained that the delay was unavoidable given the current political climate and logistical challenges posed by the country’s road conditions. He emphasized the crucial role that the retreat will play in shaping the CDC’s future, stating that the gathering will bring together young people from across the country to strategize and develop a comprehensive roadmap for the party’s return to power in 2029.
