By The wrong of yesterday is the right of today?
Eleven months into his administration, President Joseph Boakai’s promise of “no business as usual” has been put to the test. His call for a return to high standards of governance, morality, and public accountability was met with great anticipation. Yet, a disturbing display of indulgence by three senior officials in his government has raised uncomfortable questions about the commitment to those ideals.
A viral video featuring Deputy Minister Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah, Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation Managing Director Mo Ali, and Liberia Telecommunications Authority Commissioner Patrick Honnah, enjoying a weekend getaway in Nimba County, has sparked outrage across the nation. In the video, the officials are seen dancing to a Notorious B.I.G. track, carefree and relaxed in a swimming pool, oblivious to the harsh realities many Liberians face.
This footage is a stark contrast to the everyday struggles of ordinary citizens. At a time when Liberia is enduring an economic crisis, with skyrocketing unemployment, crippling inflation, and a population living on less than $2 a day, the video sends a message of insensitivity and detachment from the suffering of the people. Prominent activist Martin K. N. Kollie has rightly condemned this display as “sheer insensitivity.” The reality is, while these officials bask in luxury, thousands of Liberians are struggling to feed their families, send their children to school, and meet basic healthcare needs.
For those in power, leisure is not inherently wrong. Public officials, like anyone else, deserve time to unwind and relax. But when those entrusted with public office flaunt their wealth in the face of widespread poverty, it becomes a matter of concern. The optics of the video are appalling, particularly because these officials were once vocal critics of the previous administration’s extravagance and perceived corruption. Now, having assumed power, they have adopted the very behaviors they once denounced.
The backlash has been swift and unforgiving. Comments on social media reflect the growing frustration among Liberians. One commenter sarcastically noted that Mo Ali, once reliant on financial assistance for medical bills, is now “rescued,” living a life of luxury while the majority of the population struggles to make ends meet. Another highlighted the disparity, saying, “While the bulk of us are drowning in frustration, unpaid bills, and economic struggles, our leaders are literally swimming in luxury.”
What is even more troubling is the apparent hypocrisy. When in opposition, these officials presented themselves as champions of the people, advocating for the needs of the common man. Now, as part of the ruling establishment, their actions seem disconnected from the reality of those they were once supposed to represent.
Former Ruling Coalition for Democratic Change Official Eugene Nagbe was criticized by supporters of the current regime for eating and taking it to social media.
Former Assistant Minister James Emmanuel Potter was also criticized for washing a brand new vehicle with an expansive drinks
The question must be asked: where is the “Rescue” agenda in all of this? When will the promises of economic reform, job creation, and poverty alleviation be translated into meaningful action? It is impossible for the Boakai administration to claim solidarity with the suffering masses while its senior officials indulge in such ostentatious displays of wealth. Public displays of opulence not only undermine public trust but also serve to erode any credibility the administration has in its commitment to bring about real change.
The Liberian people deserve better. They deserve a government that is empathetic to their struggles and one that lives by the same standards it imposes on its citizens. Instead of flaunting luxury, these officials should be focused on addressing the country’s systemic inequalities. They should remember that their power comes from the people, and their responsibility is to them first.
As one astute commenter pointed out, “What was wrong yesterday, is still wrong today and will remain wrong tomorrow.” If Liberia is to see true progress, it must be led by individuals who understand that public service is not about self-indulgence, but about serving the people with humility and integrity. Until then, the distance between the government and the governed will continue to widen, further eroding the trust and hope that Liberians so desperately need.
