Monrovia, Liberia – In a tightly contested presidential election in November 2023, Joseph Boakai emerged victorious over incumbent George Weah, securing the highest office in Liberia. Boakai’s victory was largely attributed to his extensive experience in government, having served in various top roles for over 40 years with minimal controversy. Liberians were hopeful that his seasoned understanding of government operations would steer the nation towards progress and stability.
However, six months into his presidency, Boakai faces mounting criticism. Allegations of constitutional undermining, appointment of unqualified bureaucrats, and turning a blind eye to corruption are among the serious accusations levied against him. Yet, perhaps the most significant criticism is the lack of a clear governmental agenda, a stark contrast to his predecessors.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia’s first female president, introduced the Poverty Reduction Strategy and later the Agenda for Transformation during her tenure. These frameworks provided a clear developmental path and garnered international support. George Weah, Boakai’s predecessor, initiated the Pro Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development, aiming to uplift the economically disadvantaged and spur economic growth.
In contrast, Boakai’s administration has yet to unveil a comprehensive plan or development strategy, leaving many questioning the government’s priorities and direction. This perceived lack of vision has not only disappointed the electorate but also drawn sharp criticism from political opponents.
Eugene Nagbe, the Chairperson of the Weah 2023 Campaign Committee, voiced his concerns publicly. “Six months into President Boakai’s term, there is still no clear agenda or developmental strategy. What are the government’s priorities? Where is the roadmap for progress? The people of Liberia deserve to know,” Nagbe asserted in a recent press conference.
The absence of a coherent agenda has fueled doubts about Boakai’s leadership and his ability to address Liberia’s pressing issues, including poverty, unemployment, and infrastructural deficits. Critics argue that without a strategic framework, the government’s efforts are disjointed and lack focus, potentially leading to missed opportunities for national development.
Furthermore, allegations of misgovernance have exacerbated public dissatisfaction. Reports of Boakai appointing unqualified individuals to key bureaucratic positions have surfaced, raising concerns about competence and effectiveness within the government. Accusations of corruption and constitutional breaches have further tarnished Boakai’s image, challenging his reputation as a seasoned and ethical statesman.
In response to the growing criticism, the Boakai administration has maintained that it is still in the process of formulating a comprehensive development strategy. Spokespersons for the President argue that meaningful and sustainable plans require time and careful consideration, promising that a detailed agenda will be presented in the coming months.
Despite these assurances, the pressure on Boakai continues to mount. Civil society organizations, opposition parties, and ordinary citizens are demanding transparency and decisive action. The expectation is that Boakai will leverage his extensive experience to craft and implement policies that address Liberia’s longstanding challenges.