By Grace Bryant Mollay
President Joseph Boakai has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding Liberia’s democratic principles, assuring citizens that his administration will not allow lawlessness or political gridlock to derail the country’s governance.
The President’s remarks comes in response to the Supreme Court’s April 23, 2025 ruling on a Bill of Information filed regarding the ongoing impasse in the House of Representatives. While acknowledging the court’s decision, President Boakai acknowledged that the legislative stalemate remains unresolved and requires immediate national attention.
“My government has already initiated broad consultations with relevant national stakeholders to determine the most appropriate and constitutionally sound path forward,” he stated.
Boakai emphasized that his government will continue to uphold the Constitution’s definition of a legislative quorum, signaling a firm stance on moving forward with a functioning House that meets legal requirements.
“Our Constitution and the Supreme Court have defined what constitutes a quorum for the conduct of business in the Legislature. We intend to vigorously uphold this vital principle of our constitutional democracy,” he said.
Calling for unity and patriotism, the President urged all elected officials to honor their oaths to the nation and called on every citizen to rise above partisanship for the greater good of Liberia.
“As we seek a political resolution to the impasse, let us do so with calm heads and committed hearts, ever mindful that Liberia is bigger than any one person, party, or position,” he said.
President Boakai reassured the public that the government remains fully operational and committed to delivering essential services and upholding democratic values.
“We will protect our democracy. We will preserve our peace. And together, we will move Liberia forward,” the Liberian leader maintained.
Meanwhile, addressing the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, Information Minister Jerolimek Matthew Piah, speaking on behalf of the Boakai administration, emphasized that the internal standoff is diverting critical attention from Liberia’s development agenda and weakening public trust in governance.
“This internal dispute has the potential to undermine the progress we’re making in national development and governance,” Minister Piah cautioned.
He described the Supreme Court’s opinion as a pivotal moment for lawmakers to recommit to their constitutional duties and seek a peaceful political resolution.
Piah reaffirmed the government’s respect for the separation of powers but stressed the need for immediate action to restore unity and legislative functionality.
“The government remains committed to the constitutional principle of one government with three separate and coordinate branches,” he said.
“However, the prolonged impasse in the House threatens national cohesion and effective governance.”
Minister Piah revealed that the administration, in collaboration with traditional leaders and other stakeholders, has been actively engaging all parties in pursuit of a resolution.
He urged lawmakers to put aside personal and political interests and return to the business of the Liberian people.
“The road to national recovery requires all hands on deck. Their constitutional oath demands service above self,” he noted.
Piah commended members of the House who have recommitted to their duties and expressed optimism that the legislature will soon unify to advance the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
“These are our initial comments following the court’s opinion. We trust that this moment will be used as a turning point to foster unity, restore legislative effectiveness, and refocus on the urgent needs of the Liberian people,” he concluded.
“Put Country First” -Executive Charges Legislature
