Boakai Pushes Governance Reforms

Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has renewed his administration’s unwavering commitment to combating corruption, strengthening governance institutions, and accelerating national development.

Speaking during a cabinet retreat in Tubmanburg, the President emphasized that “there will be no retreat” in the national fight against graft.

Boakai, who assumed office pledging to restore public trust, highlighted that the government has already taken disciplinary steps, including the suspension and resignation of several officials accused of administrative or ethical breaches an early signal, he said, of “seriousness, not symbolism.”

The President instructed the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to expedite outstanding audit reports, stressing that prolonged delays create space for “public speculation and institutional doubt.”

“Delays affect progress and erode confidence. We must close audit gaps faster to assure Liberians that accountability is real,” Boakai asserted.

Liberia ranked 142 out of 180 countries on the 2024 Transparency International Corruption Perception Index, and the administration has been under pressure to show measurable improvements.

Boakai said his government aims to significantly improve Liberia’s score by 2026 through strengthened oversight and enforcement.

He pressed his cabinet to adhere to the government’s Performance Management and Delivery System, reminding officials that public service delivery depends on collaboration and measurable results.

“We must meet our targets. Performance is not optional; it is the basis for accountability,” he said.

He acknowledged that some officials initially struggled with the expectations of the new system but noted that “they now understand” and must provide regular performance reports.

Addressing public concern over official foreign trips, Boakai vowed that all travels will now be evaluated based on measurable benefits.

“We will track every foreign engagement to ensure Liberia gains development value, not just meetings,” he declared.

Boakai pledged a rigorous vetting process for upcoming appointments, stressing that nationality, religion, political affiliation, or family ties will not determine who occupies key posts.

“Liberia must move forward. Only competent, committed, and patriotic individuals will serve,” he stressed.

In outlining his 2026 development priorities, President Boakai announced several major initiatives, including a football academy in Bong County, a national urban planning initiative, relocation of the Fire Service Station, acceleration of road construction, and a modern multifunctional market at Omega.

President Boakai reported signs of economic improvement, noting that Liberia’s national budget has reached US$1 billion for the first time, with over 80% of revenue generated domestically.

He highlighted GDP growth, improved national security, strengthened rule of law, and ongoing efforts to rehabilitate young people affected by drug abuse.

He also issued a stern warning to police and security personnel against abusing their authority. “Your badges are not hunting licenses. Uphold the law, don’t break it,” he declared.

Boakai’s message signals a renewed push for accountability, development, and institutional reforms as Liberia prepares for the next phase of its national agenda, aiming to demonstrate tangible results in 2026.