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Citizens Reacts To Boakai’s Call On Public Funds

By Laurina B. Lormia
President Joseph Boakai’s appeal for government officials to use public funds to assist citizens has sparked debate over whether it is a sincere call to help or a calculated “strategic trap.”
His statements have since sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some hailing the call as a genuine step toward improving the lives of Liberians, while others remain cautious, suspecting that it could be a strategic move to weed out corrupt officials.
On Friday August 2, 2024, during the fifth Cabinet meeting held at the Executive Mansion, President Boakai cautioned that any attempts to misuse his administration to undermine the government would not be tolerated.
According to him, when they were appointing officials, they selected individuals with integrity, love for Liberia, and a commitment to the country’s prosperity.
He added that, if anyone enters this Cabinet intending to repeat past unethical behaviors, and we gather sufficient evidence, the government will take decisive action.
“Liberia is now 177 years old,” President Boakai remarked. “It is time for the government to recognize the suffering of its citizens and prioritize serving their needs. This administration exists to serve the people of Liberia,” he stressed.
He further noted that officials who fail to align with the government’s ethical standards and objectives would face immediate removal.
“If we identify such individuals, they will be required to leave. Their departure will signify the end of their involvement with this administration, and we will have no reason to return to those who recommended them,” President Boakai emphasized.
Over the weekend, during a visit to Lofa County, President Boakai made a strong statement, saying, “We want to encourage those who wish to remain corrupt and steal money to use it to bless our people.”
However, citizens have expressed their thoughts on the President’s statements, with mixed reactions. Some are hopeful that this new stance will bring about positive changes.
The President’s commitment to removing corrupt officials from his government has sparked conversations about the broader issue of corruption in Liberia’s political landscape.
Many argue that while addressing corruption within the government is crucial, it must be part of a wider effort to reform institutions, improve transparency, and create opportunities for all Liberians.
In the coming months, Liberians will be watching closely to see if President Boakai’s words will be followed by actions that bring about the long-overdue change the country desperately needs.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, December 24, the Executive Mansion issued a release clarifying the President’s statement on investment and corruption, stating that, President Boakai emphasized the importance of public officials rejecting corruption and using public resources responsibly for the benefit of the Liberian people.
“In February 2024, President Boakai commissioned audits of key government institutions, including the Central Bank of Liberia, the National Security Agency, and the Executive Protection Service, covering activities from 2018 to 2023. These audits aim to address financial irregularities and ensure accountability,” the release added.
President Boakai suspended Central Bank Governor Jolue Aloysius Tarlue in July 2024 due to unauthorized loans and overspending. In October 2024, senior officials of the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) were also suspended amid allegations of financial misconduct, pending investigations by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).
“In August 2024, President Boakai cautioned newly commissioned officials that corruption would not be tolerated, emphasizing accountability and warning that violators would face Adding, President Boakai declared “International Anti-Corruption Day” to raise awareness and promote ethical governance nationwide,” the release concluded.
For now, the President’s appeal remains a topic of intense debate, with some applauding his courage and others questioning the true motives behind his call to action.

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