By Precious D. Freeman
A renowned human rights lawyer and 2023 presidential candidate, Tiawan Saye Gongloe, delivered a scathing critique of the current administration during a keynote address over the weekend, questioning the effectiveness of President Joseph Boakai’s promises of hope and reform.
Addressing the audience on the topic, “What kind of country is this?” Gongloe emphasized that the only changes visible to ordinary Liberians are in the wealth and lifestyle of high-ranking government officials.
He expressed concern that while the administration pledged to eliminate “business as usual” and “rescue” the nation, the reality reflects a stark disparity.
“Our leaders promised us ‘hope.’ They promised us ‘no more business as usual.’ They promised to ‘rescue’ Liberia. But what has changed for the ordinary Liberian?” Gongloe asked rhetorically. “The only changes we see are in the personal lives and pockets of high-ranking officials.”
The former Labor Minister pointed out that while government officials enjoy luxurious homes and vehicles, ordinary citizens continue to struggle, forced to manage their expectations in the face of unfulfilled promises.
He lamented the severe wage disparities among public officials and technocrats, noting that essential workers such as teachers and nurses earn in years what some officials receive in a single month.
“What kind of country is this?” he questioned, highlighting the plight of public servants who form the backbone of the nation.
He criticized the toleration of poverty and the rise of human trafficking, which preys on desperate youth seeking a better future.
“This is not a rhetorical question. This is a call to action,” he declared. “We must confront these harsh realities and hold our leaders accountable. Government should serve the people, not exploit them.”
Gongloe condemned the current political climate, equating the practice of viewing elections as investments to legalize theft.
He urged citizens to elect leaders committed to genuine public service, reinforcing the idea that holding public office is a sacred trust.
“A better Liberia is possible, but it requires action, not complacency,” he asserted. “We must change the mindset that government is a business venture and corruption is acceptable.”
Gongloe called for collective action against corruption, insisting that only through accountability can Liberia hope to move beyond the painful question of its current state.
“We cannot continue to ask this question from one government to another. A better Liberia is achievable if we unite to eradicate corruption from our government,” he concluded.
