By: Sir-George S Tengbeh Advocate|Activist,
As 2024 comes to a close, Liberia finds itself at a crossroads. The administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, elected with promises of rescue and renewal, has struggled to meet the expectations of its citizens. From escalating food insecurity to rising unemployment, the challenges facing the nation underscore the urgent need for effective governance and inclusive leadership.
The Weight of Expectations
Joseph Boakai’s election was seen by many as a beacon of hope. After years of economic stagnation and political instability under previous administrations, citizens pinned their hopes on his pledge to deliver democratic dividends through the “Rescue Mission” campaign. His ARREST agenda focusing on agriculture, roads, rule of law, education, sanitation, and tourism promised a comprehensive approach to rebuilding the nation. However, the realities of governance have proven far more complex.
A Liberian entrepreneur, Apu Flomo, expressed cautious optimism, saying, “I believe Boakai can transform Liberia’s economy and infrastructure if he’s allowed to lead without interference. But right now, there’s too much infighting in the government, and we are not seeing the bold actions we were promised” (FrontPageAfrica)
One of the most pressing issues has been food insecurity. Despite launching the Liberians Feed Yourselves initiative, which aims to transition the country to sustainable, mechanized agriculture, many Liberians report worsening food shortages. The Boakai administration highlighted the program’s potential to revolutionize the agricultural sector, but implementation has been slow. Farmers lack access to tools, fertilizers, and credit systems, leaving many struggling to produce sufficient yields (The Executive Mansion, FrontPageAfrica).
Sarah Jallah, a market vendor in Monrovia, expressed her frustration: “We were told we would not have to depend on imported rice anymore. But here we are, still buying expensive imported rice while our farms lie barren. What is the government doing for us?”
The labor sector has seen little improvement, with unemployment remaining a major concern. Civil servants who were promised salary increments continue to wait as budget constraints hinder progress. The lack of job opportunities has hit the youth particularly hard, pushing many into informal employment or leaving them idle a dangerous precursor to social unrest(FrontPageAfrica, Embassy of Liberia in the United States).
Lloyd N. Ngwayah, an opinion leader, warned: “If Boakai doesn’t prioritize job creation, he risks losing the trust of the young people who voted for change. They are growing impatient, and time is running out.”
Political infighting within the Unity Party has further complicated governance. Many loyalists who campaigned for Boakai now expect preferential treatment in public appointments, creating tensions that undermine effective administration. Critics argue that these struggles detract from the government’s ability to focus on key issues such as reconciliation and economic recovery (FrontPageAfrica, Embassy of Liberia in the United States).
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Morris Wrepu, a political commentator, lamented: “The power struggles in this government are like termites eating away at its foundation. If President Boakai cannot rein in his team and foster unity, how can we expect progress?”
Turning Promises into Action
Despite these challenges, the Boakai administration has opportunities to pivot. The NADP, if fully implemented, could alleviate food insecurity and spur economic growth. Increased transparency in governance and targeted investments in education and infrastructure are also critical steps. Howeverthese efforts require political will and the active involvement of all stakeholders.
Steve Kennedy, a former legislative candidate, remains hopeful: “President Boakai has the vision to lead Liberia out of this mess, but he needs to act decisively. We cannot afford another year of unfulfilled promises.”
As frustrations grow, ordinary Liberians are sending messages to their president. One such citizen, Emmanuel Doe, posted on social media: “Mr. President, we are tired of waiting. You asked us to trust you, and we did. Now we need you to deliver. The time for excuses is over.”
Another comment from a university student, Maria Johnson, read: “If we don’t see change soon, you will lose the support of the young people who believed in your Rescue Mission. Education, jobs, and fairness—these are not too much to ask.”
A Nation’s Plea
The Boakai administration stands at a critical juncture. While the challenges are undeniable, so too are the opportunities to deliver meaningful change. By fostering unity within the government, addressing food insecurity, and creating jobs, the president can begin to rebuild trust and hope among Liberians.
As one Liberian elder succinctly put it: “Leadership is not about words, but about actions. President Boakai, we are watching. Lead us, don’t disappoint us.”
Liberia’s story is one of resilience. As the nation navigates its challenges, let this be a rallying cry for all citizens to demand accountability and work together for a brighter future. The Lone Star must shine not only as a symbol of hope but as a testament to the collective strength of its people.
