By By: Alphanso G. Kalama
Monrovia, Liberia – President Joseph Boakai is under fire following remarks that critics say undermine his administration’s anti-corruption promises. Speaking during the 60th anniversary of Lofa, Nimba, Bong, and Grand Gedeh counties gaining county status, the President made statements that many interpreted as condoning corrupt practices.
Addressing a crowd in Lofa County, President Boakai said: “We want to encourage those who want to remain corrupt and steal your money, but I beg you, the money should be used to bless our people.”
The comments, which critics argue trivialize corruption, have drawn sharp comparisons to controversial remarks by former Minister of State Nathaniel McGill during the George Weah administration. McGill, who is now under U.S. sanctions for corruption, faced a similar backlash for suggesting stolen funds could be justified if used to improve citizens’ lives.
Public Outcry and Damage Control
The remarks have sparked widespread backlash, with many accusing the President of sending a dangerous signal in a nation plagued by systemic corruption. Anderson Miamen, Executive Director of the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), expressed his disappointment:
“A sitting President and professed integrity champion encouraging officials to steal and invest in Liberia or improve the lives of citizens? This is so embarrassing and totally contrary to his anti-corruption promises. It represents business as usual—perhaps even worse.”
The President’s Press Secretary, Kula Fofana, attempted to downplay the controversy, arguing that the comments were taken out of context. According to Fofana, President Boakai was highlighting the impact of corruption on development and reaffirmed his commitment to taking action against corrupt individuals. However, the clarification has done little to quell public anger.
Weakness in Anti-Corruption Efforts
The controversy adds to growing concerns over the administration’s perceived lack of progress in fighting corruption. Nearly a year into his presidency, Boakai has failed to enforce compliance with asset declaration laws for government officials, a key pillar of his anti-corruption platform. Critics say this inaction reflects a broader unwillingness to address the entrenched issue.
CENTAL and other transparency advocates have decried the government’s failure to reprimand officials who have yet to declare their assets, incomes, and liabilities as required by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission.
Eroding Trust in Leadership
For a leader who campaigned on integrity and transparency, the ambiguity of President Boakai’s remarks threatens to erode public trust. Critics argue that his words embolden corrupt practices by implying stolen funds can be justified if used for public benefit, a dangerous precedent in a country still grappling with governance challenges.
A Turning Point?
President Boakai faces mounting pressure to clarify his stance and take swift action to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to accountability. Without decisive measures to address corruption and rebuild public confidence, his leadership risks being overshadowed by the very issue he pledged to combat.
Liberians are now left questioning: Will Boakai’s administration rise to the challenge, or will his presidency be remembered as another chapter in the country’s long struggle with corruption?
