-CDC Responds to President Boakai’s State of the Nation Address
By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia — The opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) delivers an official response to President Joseph N. Boakai’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA), asserting that Liberia is currently facing a crisis of democracy and governance. The address, characterized by the CDC as a reflection of a nation in decline, highlights concerns over the rule of law, economic instability, and political polarization.
The CDC’s response, articulated by its leadership, emphasized the troubling reality of a divided nation, as evidenced by the significant boycott of the SONA by several senators, representatives, and members of the Supreme Court. “The state of the nation is weak, divided, and polarized,” the statement read, underscoring a sense of urgency in addressing the challenges facing Liberia.
A Legacy of Peaceful Transition
The CDC began its critique by recalling the peaceful political transition from former President George Manneh Weah to President Boakai, which occurred in November 2023. The party praised President Weah’s concession of power as an act of patriotism, marking a significant moment in Liberia’s democratic journey. “He signaled the dawn of a new day in Liberian peace and democracy,” the statement noted, contrasting this with the current state of governance under the Unity Party.
Concerns Over Rule of Law and Governance
The response articulated deep concerns regarding the erosion of the rule of law and the perceived disregard for legal norms by the current administration. The CDC accused the Unity Party of teaching Liberians that the rule of law is malleable, stating, “The law is whatever the President and his legislative friends say the law is.” This, they argued, has led to widespread confusion and unrest among the populace, with citizens reportedly facing violence for exercising their constitutional rights.
The CDC further criticized the Unity Party for alleged manipulation of legislative processes, including the controversial selection of a “majority block” Speaker of the House, which they deemed illegal. “What a mockery of democracy and the rule of law!” the statement exclaimed, calling into question the legitimacy of the current government’s authority.
Economic Decline and Misinformation
The economic landscape, the CDC argued, has deteriorated under the Unity Party’s governance, with rising prices and a lack of transparency in budget management. They challenged the administration’s claims of fiscal surplus and questioned the accuracy of revenue reports, suggesting that either corruption or misinformation is at play. “We wait for the response,” they stated, emphasizing the need for accountability in financial matters.
The party also highlighted the failure to fulfill campaign promises made by President Boakai, including commitments to reverse harmful policies and improve living conditions for ordinary Liberians. “The reality has now set in for the Unity Party,” the CDC declared, listing a series of unmet promises that have contributed to the current economic hardship faced by many.
Comparative Achievements: CDC vs. Unity Party
In a detailed comparison, the CDC highlighted its own achievements during its administration, asserting that it laid a strong foundation for governance that the Unity Party has since squandered. They cited accomplishments such as infrastructure development, salary increases for healthcare workers, and educational reforms, contrasting these with what they described as the Unity Party’s lack of progress in its first year.
The CDC lamented the absence of new foreign investments and the administration’s reliance on misleading announcements to create an illusion of progress. “The real challenge Liberia faces is to change our business and investment climate,” they stated, emphasizing the need for genuine efforts to attract investment rather than mere showmanship.
Call for National Unity and Dialogue
The CDC concluded its response with a call for national unity and reconciliation, urging President Boakai to engage with former leaders, political parties, and civil society in a national dialogue. “Liberia is not for any particular tribe, region, or religion. Liberia is for all Liberians,” they asserted, advocating for a collective approach to address the nation’s challenges.
In closing, the CDC expressed its commitment to holding the Unity Party accountable for its governance failures, declaring, “The time for change is now.” They called on all Liberians to unite in the pursuit of a brighter future, rooted in justice, integrity, and the belief that every citizen deserves a chance to thrive.
