-EFF warns Pres. Boakai’s Officials urges him to Combat Corruption Amidst Growing Scandals
By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia, Liberia – Emmanuel Gonquoi, the Political Leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) of Liberia, has stressed the urgent need for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to address corruption within his administration.
In a statement on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, Gonquoi warned that the collective struggle of the Liberian people should not become a breeding ground for greed. “Don’t provoke us to early action because we will fight back. Again, we are talking in-house because we truly want the President to succeed. We are refusing to play politics with our people’s future but at the same time, we can’t be provoked,” he warns.
In his opinion, the Boakai government is now being tested by a “corrupt few,” and the future of Liberia hinges on the President’s commitment to fighting corruption.
Reflecting on the historic inauguration of former President George Weah in January 2018, Gonquoi recalled the emotional atmosphere that surrounded the event. “Weah’s inauguration was not only historic but also filled with hope,” he said. “Many poor people shared tears of joy, dreaming of a future where medicine would be available in hospitals and inflation would be under control.”
However, Gonquoi lamented that the initial optimism quickly turned to despair as reports of corruption emerged. “The tears of joy turned into tears of sorrow,” he stated. “Hardship engulfed the entire country, and the joy that once filled the air was replaced with anger.” He highlighted the scandal involving former officials, including Nathaniel McGill, as emblematic of the rampant corruption that plagued Weah’s administration.
As President Boakai takes office, Gonquoi noted that the international community has rallied around him, hoping he would take a stand against the corruption that has long hindered Liberia’s progress. “Ambassador Boakai’s inauguration was witnessed by historic global delegations, signaling their support for a leader who can stamp out corruption,” he remarked.
However, Gonquoi expressed concern over recent scandals linked to individuals considered “untouchable” within the government. “It is now time to see the President’s anger against corruption,” he urged. “His promise to fight corruption brought him to power, and he must act decisively.”
The EFF leader called for immediate action, insisting that Boakai should dismiss officials implicated in corruption upon his return to Liberia. “For EFFL to support this Alliance, we were clear about prosecuting former officials, including ex-President George Weah,” he asserted. “The UP Alliance cannot afford to betray our people in this fight.”
Gonquoi also addressed the motivations behind the rush for wealth among some government officials. “Many believe that the President is old and will not run for office again, prompting them to seek riches at any cost,” he said. “We will not accept such behavior—not today, not tomorrow.”
He expressed unwavering trust in President Boakai, stating, “I have worked with him for nine years, and I can say with certainty that he will never personally get involved with corruption like George Weah.” However, he made it clear that the EFF is closely monitoring the situation. “We have asked our ground forces to support the President amid unhappiness until it’s clear that he is fully departing from his promises to our people,” he added.
