-Demands Accountability
Monrovia, Liberia – The Coalition for Democratic Change – Council of Patriots (CDC-COP) blames
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration for what it considers mismanagement of foreign policy and rampant corruption for Liberia’s potential inclusion on a U.S. visa restriction “yellow list.” The group has called for immediate action to address the crisis, which threatens to isolate Liberia diplomatically and economically.
In a statement released Monday, the CDC-COP accused the Boakai administration of undermining Liberia’s longstanding alliance with the United States through a series of diplomatic missteps, including a pivot toward nations like China, Iran, and Russia. The group also highlighted Liberia’s opposition to U.S. positions at the United Nations General Assembly, which it described as a “diplomatic disaster” that has strained bilateral relations.
The CDC-COP further criticized the administration for its handling of security breaches in Liberia’s passport system, citing the fraudulent issuance of diplomatic passports to foreign nationals, including German citizen Mathias Anton Spies. The group likened the scandal to past controversies involving the Unity Party, referencing the 2012 documentary “The Ambassador,” which exposed similar abuses.
“The Boakai administration’s incompetence and corruption have pushed Liberia to the brink of diplomatic and economic ruin,” the CDC-COP stated. “We demand accountability, transparency, and immediate action to address these critical issues.”
The United States has reportedly issued a 60-day ultimatum for Liberia to address these concerns or face severe consequences, including stricter visa restrictions, financial sanctions, and the potential loss of vital international aid and investment. The CDC-COP warned that failure to act could devastate Liberia’s economy, particularly by disrupting billions in remittances from the Liberian diaspora.
The group also condemned the administration’s handling of domestic issues, including the establishment of the War Crimes Court and the removal of Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi, which it described as politically motivated. Additionally, the CDC-COP criticized the government’s failure to secure Liberia’s ports of entry, calling for an overhaul of border security protocols.
The CDC-COP urged President Boakai to comply with U.S. Executive Order 141161, fire officials involved in passport fraud, and take decisive steps to restore Liberia’s diplomatic standing. “The time for excuses is over,” the statement read. “Liberia’s future depends on bold, decisive leadership, which has been sorely lacking under this administration.”
The group called on all Liberians to join in demanding accountability and transparency from the government, vowing to continue fighting for the nation’s dignity and stability.
