– As Ruling Party National Chairman Expresses Disgust in Governance
By Jerromie S. Walters, D. Kebeh Sammie & Vaye A. Lepolu
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai will deliver his second State of the Nation Address today, January 27, 2025, as mandated by Article 58 of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia. After a year marked by challenges and controversies, many have preempted and are eager to hear what the president has to say.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s annual message comes amid ongoing turmoil within the House of Representatives. As Liberians eagerly await their leader’s address, there are mounting expectations for him to provide a comprehensive report on the actions taken to fulfill his campaign promises.
The Unity Party, under President Boakai’s leadership, committed to tackling pervasive issues such as drug abuse and corruption, while also prioritizing the development of the nation’s infrastructure, particularly its road network. During his campaign, President Boakai famously declared that no vehicle would become ensnared in the mud under his administration, a promise that was met with enthusiasm by many voters. However, this assertion led to a controversial allocation of $22 million for road rehabilitation projects, raising questions about the effectiveness and transparency of such expenditures.
Throughout the year, President Boakai indicated that a close associate would facilitate the arrival of 285 earth-moving machines designated for road rehabilitation. Unfortunately, this promise remains unfulfilled, casting doubt on the administration’s ability to deliver on its infrastructure commitments and leaving many citizens frustrated.
Moreover, the President is expected to address the troubling situation surrounding the NEKOTECH Scholarship program, which has been marred by allegations of fraud. Reports indicate that 99% of applicants were denied visas by the American Embassy, prompting concerns about the legitimacy of the program and its oversight.
In light of the rising cost of living and the limited fiscal space available for significant development initiatives, coupled with shifting global trends in foreign aid, the Boakai administration faces considerable challenges. Observers believe that to regain the trust of the populace, it is essential for the government to confront these critical issues head-on.
As part of his address, President Boakai is anticipated to outline a clear legislative agenda that articulates how his administration plans to navigate the pressing development challenges facing Liberia. This agenda should reflect a commitment to improving the well-being of the people while fostering transparency and accountability in governance. The address represents a pivotal opportunity for President Boakai to not only assess his administration’s progress but also to reaffirm his dedication to the nation’s future.
Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the ruling Unity Party has expressed disgust about government performance, as he called on President Joseph Boakai to take decisive and immediate action against corruption within his administration, advocating for the dismissal and prosecution of any officials implicated in wrongdoing. While the party acknowledges the government’s efforts to combat corruption, it insists that stronger measures are essential, particularly in light of a recent audit report concerning the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA).
Chairperson Luther Tarph stressed the urgency of addressing the findings of the LTA audit report, which has gained significant attention on social media. The report implicates both suspended commissioners and Acting Chair Abdullah Kamara in the mismanagement of funds earmarked for the Digital Transformation Program. Tarph urged President Boakai to mandate the Ministry of Justice and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations and prosecute those found guilty.
“As a party, we support the President’s commitment to restoring integrity in public service,” Tarph stated. “However, the failure to hold public officials accountable will not only lead to disappointment among the Liberian people but also erode the trust in your mandate.”
Beyond addressing corruption, the Unity Party is also pushing for a more vigorous response to the ongoing narcotics crisis, which they believe presents a grave threat to the nation’s youth. Tarph criticized the government for its insufficient efforts to combat drug abuse, highlighting that drug-related issues continue to affect communities nationwide. He called on the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to adopt a more proactive stance in tackling this pressing national emergency.
“The ghettos that have ensnared our children during the CDC regime are still prevalent,” he remarked. “We need the DEA to intensify its efforts against narcotics that threaten our children’s futures. This fight requires collaboration from all sectors, including schools, community leaders, and local government officials.”
Tarph made it clear that the honeymoon period for government officials is over, demanding immediate action on pressing social issues that affect the Liberian populace. “We expect our leaders to address the critical needs of the people, including employment, infrastructure, and the fight against drugs and corruption,” he declared.
He underscored the urgency of tackling unemployment, particularly among party supporters who worked tirelessly to bring the current government to power. “These individuals are struggling to provide for their families and send their children to school,” Tarph said. “Ordinary citizens deserve access to quality healthcare, education, and well-paying jobs.”
The Unity Party chairperson asserted that officials who fail to perform their duties diligently must be held accountable. “It is no longer business as usual,” he warned. “We demand action, not empty political promises. This is a stern reminder that government officials must work tirelessly to ensure the government’s agenda positively impacts the lives of ordinary citizens.”
Tarph also addressed government officials who have disparaged the Unity Party and its supporters, asserting, “If it weren’t for the hard work of our party members, you wouldn’t be in your positions. It is unacceptable to disregard the contributions of those who fought for your success.”
He concluded by pledging that the Unity Party would take serious political action against any government officials who disrespect party loyalists, emphasizing the need for unity and accountability within the administration. “We did not win this election for your gain while the foot soldiers who supported you struggle to make ends meet,” he asserted, calling for a renewed commitment to serving the interests of all Liberians.
The Constitution mandates that “The President shall, on the fourth working Monday in January of each year, present the administration’s legislative programs for the ensuing session, and shall once a year report to the Legislature on the state of the Republic. In presenting the Republic’s economic condition, the report shall cover expenditure and income.”
However, due to the ongoing impasse in the House of Representatives, President Joseph Byuma Boakai’s second State of the Nation address will be delivered to a certain Bloc of the House of Representatives and Senate rather than the full legislature.
One Year Down
At 80, Boakai is Liberia’s oldest president. He won the 2023 election against former President George Weah with 50.64% of the votes. He has five years remaining in his six-year term. Boakai marked his first year in office on January 22, 2025. In his inaugural address and first SONA, he outlined a vision for Liberia, addressed key challenges, and called for national unity.
He spoke of hard times, dysfunction, and corruption. “Change is not an option; it is a necessity,” he declared. His administration aimed to act decisively within the first hundred days to restore hope and unity. Boakai urged citizens to embrace their roles in nation-building and called for a national conversation about the country’s past, present, and future.
One of his key promises was to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and accountability. However, some officials have been embroiled in corruption scandals. Deputy Minister Bill McGill Jones recently faced controversy for submitting a falsified document to justify a $322,441 contract.
In response, Boakai suspended three senior officials from the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) due to financial misconduct allegations. On November 13, 2024, the Ministry of State dismissed three employees involved in payroll padding for misusing public funds. Despite these actions, Boakai faced criticism for allegedly endorsing corruption by encouraging officials to invest their ill-gotten gains to help others.
On December 20, 2024, Boakai broke ground for a new National Clinical Diagnostic and Treatment Laboratory, a significant advancement for Liberia’s healthcare system. In May 2024, the government launched eleven projects to enhance primary roads. However, progress has been slow, with only two of fifteen major projects completed.
The government aims to boost agriculture for job creation and food security. Boakai opened the National Agriculture Fair 2024, highlighting the sector’s importance for economic growth.
Meanwhile, criticism surrounds Boakai’s dedication to the rule of law. He suspended various officials from the Liberia Telecommunication Authority over misconduct allegations. Education reform remains a priority, with plans to invest in vocational training for youth.
The Liberia Revenue Authority surpassed its revenue target for 2024, collecting over $692 million. The economy grew by 5.1% that year. On November 28, 2024, Boakai issued three Executive Orders to promote economic growth and support state-owned enterprises.
Boakai also vowed to combat drug proliferation in Liberia, declaring it a national health emergency. He highlighted the dangers of substances like “KUSH.” Despite efforts, drug abuse continues to be a significant issue, with new strains like “Zombie” emerging.
Despite Boakai’s administration marking its first year, many Liberians believe it was less effective than that of his predecessor. A WomenVoices survey revealed concerns over rising costs, ineffective drug combat measures, low job creation, and a troubling disregard for the rule of law.
SONA Special Protocols
The 55th Legislature has designated the Capitol grounds as the venue for this year’s annual message. This decision follows the December 18 “arson attack” on the William R. Tolbert Joint Chamber, the usual site for the address.
The event will commence at 2:30 PM, concluding with the President’s address at 4:00 PM. Guests will enter through the House wing entrance, while Members of the 55th Legislature will use the front entrance. The Chief of Protocol will manage the arrival of dignitaries throughout the afternoon.
At 2:50 PM, the Chief of Protocol will announce the arrival of Members of the Consular Corps, followed by Heads of International Organizations at 2:55 PM. The Doyen and Members of the Diplomatic Corps will be recognized at 3:00 PM, and at 3:05 PM, the Dean and Members of the Cabinet will be acknowledged.
At 3:10 PM, the Chief of Protocol will announce the arrival of Former Heads of State, Former Vice Presidents, and other dignitaries. Everyone present will be required to rise in acknowledgment.
The Chief Justice and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court will be introduced at 3:15 PM, followed by the Speaker and Members of the House of Representatives at 3:20 PM. The Vice President, who also serves as President of the Senate, will be introduced at 3:25 PM and will sit next to the Speaker for the Joint Session.
The Sergeant-At-Arms of the House of Representatives will officially open the Second Joint Session of the 55th Legislature at 3:45 PM. At 3:50 PM, the Joint Executive Committee will escort President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. to the podium. The Sergeant-At-Arms will announce the President’s arrival, prompting all present to rise.
Finally, at 4:00 PM, President Boakai will deliver his Annual Message to the Second Joint Session of the 55th Legislature. After the address, he will be escorted to the main entrance of the Capitol grounds, where he will depart, prompting all present to rise once more.
Boycotting the SONA
The Rule of Law Caucus of the House of Representatives recently announced its boycott of the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA). This decision, disclosed in a press statement on January 21, 2025, stems from concerns over legislative independence and increasing executive interference.
The caucus is particularly alarmed by the Executive’s recognition of Representative Richard N. Koon as Speaker, despite the legitimate Speaker still holding office. “The Executive’s recognition of Honorable Richard N. Koon as Speaker, despite the legitimate Speaker still being in office, is a blatant violation of democratic principles and legislative autonomy.”
They view this as a direct violation of democratic principles and an attack on legislative autonomy. Attending the SONA under these conditions would imply acceptance of this illegitimacy, a stance the caucus vehemently rejects.
“This unprecedented action not only strips the legitimate Speaker of his authority and dignity but also humiliates the Legislature as an institution. Attending the SONA under such circumstances would amount to tacit approval of this illegitimacy—a position we categorically reject.”
Recent incidents involving law enforcement aggression against caucus members have further fueled their concerns. The group is prepared to challenge any attempts to fabricate evidence against its members in court, emphasizing their commitment to a fair investigation.
The caucus’s decision to boycott the SONA aims to send a clear message: they will not recognize a Speaker who has not been legitimately elected. The matter is currently under judicial review, and any prior recognition of Koon undermines both the rule of law and the democratic process.
“By boycotting the SONA, we are sending a resolute message: we will not acknowledge the authority of a Speaker who has not been legitimately elected. The matter is currently under judicial review, and any recognition of Honorable Richard N. Koon before a final court determination undermines both the rule of law and the democratic process.”
The caucus asserts that their constitutional duty is to protect the integrity of the Legislature. Participating in an event organized by an Executive branch that disregards legislative independence would compromise their integrity and perpetuate illegality.
They called on Senate members and other lawmakers to join this principled stand. Together, they must reject actions that undermine institutions, erode the rule of law, and threaten Liberia’s democracy.
The Rule of Law Caucus remains committed to justice, legislative independence, and democratic governance. This boycott is not merely an act of defiance but a principled stand against threats to democracy. “The Rule of Law Caucus remains steadfast in its commitment to justice, legislative independence, and democratic governance. This boycott is not an act of defiance but a firm and principled stand against actions that threaten the very foundation of our democracy.”
The Unstable HOR
Tensions heightened in the House of Representatives on October 17, 2024, when 47 members pursued to remove Speaker J. Fonati Koffa over allegations of misconduct. On November 21, Representative Richard Nagbe Koon was controversially elected as the “new Speaker.” Many lawmakers labeled his election fraudulent.
Despite the disarray, Speaker Koffa remains defiant. The Executive has since withdrawn all state security personnel assigned to him but Koffa insists he will continue to uphold the rule of law and the Liberian Constitution. “You can be riding in the hurricane’s eye and still have peace within,” he stated.
