President Joseph Boakai says failure is not an option in the government as it strives to meet the expectations of the Liberian people.
The President spoke yesterday, at the government’s first cabinet retreat ongoing at the Ministerial Complex as he makes use of his opportunity to steer Liberia towards progress and prosperity.
The retreat, themed ‘Coordination and Performance: Delivering on National Agenda Priorities,’ marks a critical junction following days into the Unity Party-led administration’s first 100 days in office.
Addressing cabinet members, government officials and civil society representatives, Boakai underscored the government’s commitment to transformative change and sustainable development.
“As we gather to convene the first cabinet retreat of this government, we should be reminded that our sole purpose in government is to serve,” Boakai stated.
“While it is a privilege to serve, the responsibility that comes with service must also, and always, remind us of the crucial duty to perform and deliver on the priorities we have set to improve the livelihood of our people and promote the common good,” he told his cabinet.
Boakai took a moment to acknowledge the efforts of cabinet members, officials, and staff across various Ministries, Agencies, and Commissions (MACs) in delivering on the 100-day Action Plan despite the challenges of a short timeframe and limited resources.
He urged the government to build on these initial successes and remain steadfast in their mission.
“We came to usher in the transformative change Liberians have long yearned for, and we must continue to demonstrate to the average Liberian that the mission to rescue him or her is no fluke but a deliberate move to set a new path for development,” he said.
President Boakai stated, “One that will improve livelihoods and bring about much-needed dignity lost over the years.”
The Liberian Leader acknowledged the high expectations of the Liberian people and stressed the need for a renewed sense of patriotism and determination among government officials.
He called for thoughtful, constructive, and open conversations to address the economic and social challenges facing the country noting, “It is no longer business as usual. This is a demand for hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the development of our beloved country.”
President Boakai reminded his cabinets saying, “The fate of a nation lies in the hands of its leaders; and although it is my picture that is plastered in papers when the government is scolded, I want you to always remember that it is up to us, the officials, to pave the way for a brighter future for our citizen.”
President Boakai urged his cabinet to embrace innovation, push beyond limits, and implement bold solutions to propel Liberia towards greatness.
He emphasized that the government must not be swayed by greed, corruption, or self-interest, but rather be guided by a sense of duty and responsibility to the citizens.
“In this globalized world and the age of technological advancement, Liberia must be seen competing; not to be satisfied as a nation at the mercy of others or be relegated to the lowest rungs of the development ladder,” Boakai asserted, reiterating, “We must set high standards for ourselves and advance the cause to change our country for good.”
President Boakai’s messaged that every member of the government must play their part or step aside and highlighted the urgency of their mission and the need for collective effort to achieve the government’s goals.
