Media and Public Statements

Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA: The Thursday, August 22 (2024) recent violent disturbances at the Headquarters of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), following a failed drug raid by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), highlight the fragility of Liberia’s peace and the deep divisions that persist within our nation. These events are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a broader and more dangerous polarization that has gripped Liberia, particularly in the aftermath of a closely contested presidential election.

Liberia’s history is marked by conflict and violence, leaving deep scars on our nation and its people. The civil wars that ravaged our country for years were fueled by impunity, corruption, and a disregard for the rule of law. As we move forward, it is imperative that we learn from our past and ensure that the mistakes that led to such devastation are not repeated.

The LGJI observes with keen interest that the Unity Party-led administration of President Joseph Boakai has taken crucial and courageous steps to address the root causes of these conflicts. The President’s apparent commitment to stamping out corruption and impunity is not only commendable but necessary for Liberia’s progress. For example, the signing of Executive Order #131, establishing the Office of War and Economic Crimes Courts, is a monumental step toward justice for wartime victims and holding alleged perpetrators accountable. This action sends a clear message that impunity will no longer be tolerated in Liberia.

However, these efforts can only succeed in an environment of peace and stability. The violent clashes that erupted between the Liberian National Police and the CDC in response to the LDEA’s operations are a dangerous sign that Liberia remains deeply divided. The LDEA’s attempt to execute a search and seizure behind the CDC Headquarters in “Small Town,” operating under a questionable warrant in an area allegedly rife with criminal activity, raises serious concerns about the agency’s adherence to legal protocols. Law enforcement must be diligent in ensuring that their actions are both legal and justifiable. Respecting the constitutional rights of all citizens is paramount, and failure to do so can erode public trust, incite unrest, and undermine the rule of law.

At the same time, no citizen has the right to take the law into their own hands. The chaos that ensued, resulting in injuries and damage to property, cannot be condoned. Citizenship carries both rights and obligations, and it is the responsibility of every Liberian to uphold the law. The notion that individuals or groups can threaten Liberia’s hard-won peace when held accountable for their actions is a dangerous fallacy. No one is above the law.

The Liberia Governance and Justice Initiative (LGJI) calls for a thorough investigation into the events surrounding these disturbances. We urge the LDEA and all law enforcement agencies to operate within the confines of the law, ensuring that their actions are guided by the principles of justice and respect for human rights. Meanwhile, we call on all political leaders, particularly those in positions of influence, to promote peace and reconciliation. The CDC, as a major opposition party, and its political leader, former President George Weah, must take active steps to control their supporters and ensure that their actions do not contribute to further unrest.

Former President Weah’s recent letter to the ECOWAS Commission, in which he criticized the Boakai administration and called for the release of detained CDC partisans, underscores the need for careful and measured political discourse. While it is important for the opposition to hold the government accountable, this must be done in a way that prioritizes the nation’s stability and avoids inflaming tensions.

Liberia’s progress depends on unity and cooperation. The LGJI stands ready to support all efforts that promote good governance, justice, and the rule of law. Let us move forward together, learning from our past and building a future where all Liberians can thrive. Accountability is not a threat to peace; it is the foundation upon which lasting peace is built.

LGJI Highlights Boakai’s Leadership

he Liberia Governance and Justice Initiative (LGJI), led by Executive Director Ahmed Sirleaf, has issued a strong statement highlighting President Boakai’s transformative leadership and commitment to reforming Liberia’s governance and justice systems.

The LGJI’s statement, issued on September 17, 2024 in Saint Paul, Minnesota, paints a vivid picture of President Boakai’s administration as a driving force for change in Liberia, emphasizing his bold efforts to combat corruption, bolster public institutions, and enforce the rule of law.

“President Boakai’s leadership marks a pivotal shift for Liberia and his administration’s reforms are not just about addressing historical grievances but are paving the way for a future defined by transparency, accountability, and justice,” Mr. Sirleaf noted.

He said one of the cornerstone achievements of Boakai’s administration is the signing of the Executive Order #131, which established the Office of War and Economic Crimes Courts.
The LGJI Executive Director noted that the landmark decision is aimed at addressing the atrocities committed during Liberia’s civil wars.

“The creation of these courts is a monumental step toward national healing and reconciliation, and it sends a clear message to the international community that Liberia is committed to ending impunity for war crimes and economic offenses,” Mr. Sirleaf said.

The LGJI commended Boakai’s proactive approach of “witch-hunt” to tackling impunity and corruption, setting him apart from previous leaders.

He revealed that President Boakai’s administration has taken decisive actions to root out corruption, which Boakai has described as “a cancer destroying Liberia.”

By instituting mechanisms for accountability and transparency, Boakai’s government is working to improve Liberia’s international image and foster an environment conducive to economic growth.

As Boakai prepares for his UNGA address, he is expected to present a vision that aligns with the General Assembly’s 2024 theme of fostering peace, justice, and sustainable development.
Mr. Sirleaf further stated that President Boakai’s push for Liberia to secure a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council underscores his broader goals of promoting rule of law and human rights both domestically and on the global stage.

On the economic front, President Boakai’s focus on fighting corruption and improving governance is crucial for Liberia’s economic revival. By targeting embezzlement and promoting transparency, his administration aims to create a stable environment for both local and foreign businesses.

As President Boakai stands before the international community at the UNGA-79, he represents a new Liberia; one determined to overcome its past and build a future marked by justice, inclusivity, and economic opportunity.

The LGJI, led by Mr. Ahmed Sirleaf, called on Liberians and the international community to support Boakai’s bold agenda, which aims to position Liberia as a model of good governance and economic prosperity in West Africa.

Source: https://inquirernewspaper.com/lgji-highlights-boakais-leadership