By: George S Tengbeh
As we see the dawning of a new year (2025), I stand before the Liberian nation with a sense of urgency and unwavering commitment to the truth. Our homeland faces an escalating crisis fuelled by bad governance, rampant unemployment, entrenched corruption, and a tragic surge in death and despair due to lawlessness and poor security management. This statement written by me in five phases serves as both a mirror to reflect our painful realities and a call to action for the President, public officials, and the citizens of Liberia.
Phase I: The State of Governance
Governance in Liberia has continued to fall far below acceptable standards, leaving the people betrayed, impoverished, and disillusioned. Despite repeated promises of reform, the actions of the ruling class betray their lack of accountability, transparency, and a genuine commitment to the Liberian people. Institutions meant to safeguard democracy have been weakened or manipulated for political gain, resulting in a governance structure that prioritizes self-interest over public service. I cannot ignore the glaring evidence of mismanagement and the lack of credible leadership. Policies meant to alleviate poverty have been poorly implemented or abandoned, leaving the majority of our citizens vulnerable and hopeless. As Liberia’s wealth continues to be misused by a select few, the trust in public leadership has eroded. The ordinary Liberian, struggling to survive, sees little reason to believe in a government that continually prioritizes the comfort of its officials over the well-being of its people.
Phase 2: Unemployment – A Crisis Unaddressed
Unemployment in Liberia remains alarmingly high, especially among the youth. With over 65% of our population under the age of 25, this demographic has become a ticking time bomb. The lack of meaningful employment opportunities has left many young Liberians trapped in cycles of poverty, exposed to drug abuse, and vulnerable to exploitation. The government’s failure to create a thriving economy or attract sustainable investments has stifled entrepreneurship and business growth. The private sector, once considered a potential engine for job creation, is crippled by overregulation, corruption, and a lack of access to capital. Meanwhile, vocational and technical training essential to equipping our youth for Liberia’s job market remains inadequate. There is a need for serious private-public sector governance and the time is now. The neglect of employment policies has wider implications. It has fostered a sense of disenfranchisement, pushing many into crime against self and crime against society in search of better opportunities. The youth of Liberia deserve better. They deserve leaders who prioritize their future.
Phase 3: Corruption – Once Declared Public Enemy is A Cancer Destroying Liberia
Corruption has permeated every level of governance, robbing the Liberian people of their wealth and dignity. Public funds meant for health, education, and infrastructure development are diverted into private pockets, leaving critical sectors grossly underfunded. The judiciary, law enforcement, and anti-corruption agencies institutions that should protect public interest are too often compromised, ineffective, or selective in their actions. This culture of impunity emboldens those in power and sends a message to ordinary Liberians that justice is unattainable. The ongoing theft of Liberia’s natural resources, legislature malpractices, and money laundering combined with dubious concession agreements, exacerbates inequality and deprives communities of their rightful share of the nation’s wealth. I demand a complete overhaul of the system that has allowed corruption to thrive.
Phase 4: Security and the Rule of Law
The rise in lawlessness and insecurity is a stark indicator of Liberia’s faltering governance. Armed robberies, ritualistic killings, and violent confrontations have become disturbingly common, as citizens live in fear for their lives and property. Poorly trained and underfunded security personnel are ill-equipped to address these challenges, leading to a lack of trust in the police and judiciary. The Justice Department has turned to selective justice with war or words between the Supreme Court, the Ministry of Justice, and the national security agency. The failure to enforce the rule of law has emboldened criminal networks and discouraged investors. Moreover, this insecurity disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including women and children, who are often victims of violence and exploitation. A government that cannot ensure the safety of its citizens has failed in its most fundamental duty.
Phase 5: Going Forward in 2025, What must be done?
In light of these challenges, I call upon the President and his administration to act decisively and urgently. The time for empty rhetoric has passed after one year in power. The people of Liberia demand concrete actions to address the following:
1. Accountable Governance
– Implement policies that promote transparency in public office.
– Strengthen anti-corruption institutions with independence and resources.
– Ensure public access to information, enabling citizens to hold leaders accountable.
2. Economic Revival and Job Creation
– Develop and fund comprehensive youth employment programs.
– Facilitate access to capital for small and medium-sized enterprises.
– Attract and support investments in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology sectors to create sustainable jobs.
3. Security and Justice
– Reform and adequately fund the security sector to ensure professional law enforcement.
– Swiftly investigate and prosecute those involved in violent crimes and corruption.
– Empower community-based initiatives to promote peace and security at the grassroots level.
4. Education and Youth Empowerment
– Invest in vocational and technical training programs that align with market needs.
– Expand access to quality education, particularly in rural areas.
– Create platforms for youth participation in policymaking and governance.
5. Health and Social Services
– Allocate sufficient resources to health systems to provide accessible care for all.
– Implement community health programs to address mental health challenges, especially among the youth.
To the People of Liberia
___________________________
I recognize the immense resilience and courage of ordinary Liberians in the face of adversity. As we enter a new year, I call on citizens to rise above tribalism, political divisions, and complacency. Our collective strength lies in unity and the belief that we can demand and achieve better governance through solidarity.
I encourage all Liberians to:
• Participate actively in civic education and advocacy initiatives.
• Hold leaders accountable by using available platforms to expose injustice and demand reforms.
• Engage in peaceful, constructive actions that contribute to nation-building.
Liberia stands at a crossroads. The failures of governance, the despair of unemployment, the scourge of corruption, and the pain of insecurity must not define our future. The responsibility to change this trajectory lies not only with our leaders but also with every Liberian committed to justice and progress.
Let me reaffirm my dedication to challenging the status quo and fighting for a Liberia that serves all its people. Together, we can restore dignity, accountability, and hope to our beloved nation.
Victory is assured because all power resides within the people.
Let us move forward united, determined, and resolute in building the Liberia we deserve.
George S Tengbeh. Advocate for Labor Justice and Good Governance
