In the wake of President Boakai’s first 100 days in office, a panel of experts has delivered a scathing assessment of his performance, highlighting unfulfilled promises and governance challenges that raise concerns about the course of Liberia’s administration.
Hopes were high following Boakai’s inauguration, a veteran Liberian politician, who secured victory over George Weah of the Coalition for Democratic Change. However, experts from esteemed institutions including the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the Liberia Chambers of Commerce, have unanimously concluded that Boakai’s governance thus far lacks a significant departure from past administrations, leaving much to be desired.
Central to the criticism leveled against the Boakai administration is the absence of a national development plan. “No one runs a country without a development plan,” asserted one expert, highlighting a fundamental flaw in the government’s approach. The failure to devise a coherent plan suggests a lack of direction and strategic vision, undermining efforts to address pressing national issues.
During his campaign, Boakai articulated an ambitious agenda, pledging to audit the Weah government, overhaul policies, and propel Liberia towards economic prosperity. However, five months into his tenure, progress on these fronts remains elusive, casting doubt on the administration’s ability to deliver on its promises. Critics argue that Boakai’s reliance on the economic foundations laid by his predecessors masks the administration’s shortcomings, rather than demonstrating proactive leadership.
Furthermore, concerns have been raised over Boakai’s appointments, with allegations of nepotism and incompetence tainting his administration. The decision to assign technical government roles to uneducated partisans has drawn condemnation, undermining confidence in the government’s capacity to execute its duties effectively.
In addition to failing on his promises, Boakai’s administration has faced backlash for its disregard for constitutional norms, particularly concerning the judiciary. The president’s perceived circumvention of the Supreme Court’s rulings on tenured officials has sparked outrage, fueling apprehensions about the erosion of democratic principles.
Amidst mounting criticism, the panel did acknowledge President Boakai’s strides in transitional justice, hailing efforts to combat impunity as a commendable achievement. However, the overall sentiment remains one of disappointment and concern, as Liberia struggles with the challenges of governance under Boakai’s leadership.
