By Grace Q. Bryant
The Unity Party-led government dismissed comparisons between the first year of former President George Weah’s administration and that of President Joseph Boakai, labeling the two as “incomparable. “The Deputy Information Minister for Press and Public Affairs, Daniel O. Sando, criticized the Weah’s Administration as being “defined by corruption” and claimed it prioritized personal enrichment over national development.
“In his first year in office, former President Weah built 42 condominiums for himself, demolished his existing homes, and constructed new ones,” Sando alleged during a press briefing on Thursday, January 9, 2025.
Sando accused the previous administration of economic mismanagement, corruption, and neglect of the Liberian people.
He claimed that under Weah’s leadership, ordinary citizens suffered from worsening economic conditions, while public funds were mismanaged or diverted.
“The Weah’s Administration left the economy in shambles. Civil servants were unpaid, inflation soared, and national infrastructure projects were riddled with inefficiencies and inflated costs,” he said.
Sando also pointed to the disappearance of L$16 billion and misallocation of COVID-19 relief funds as glaring examples of corruption.
He accused Weah’s government of protecting those implicated in these scandals instead of holding them accountable.
In contrast, Sando praised President Boakai’s administration for achieving significant progress in just one year.
“The economy has stabilized, inflation has been reduced, and Liberia recorded a 5.1% growth rate in 2024. Civil servants are now paid on time, and international partners have renewed confidence in Liberia’s leadership,” Sando stated.
He commended the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, led by Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, for restoring Liberia’s credibility on the global stage.
He also highlighted the formal launch of the National Development Plan, which aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Additional achievements include the decentralization of fiscal operations, successful qualification for an Extended Credit Facility to service national debt, and increased public sector investments.
“These accomplishments in just one year lay the groundwork for sustainable economic and social development,” Sando said.
Minister Sando also addressed recent violent incidents, including the burning of a police station and court facility in Lofa County, condemning these actions as contrary to the principles of democracy.
“This nation is governed by laws, not individuals. Liberians must reflect on our painful history, marked by civil war, and commit to avoiding past mistakes. Violence is not the answer,” he stated.
He emphasized that perpetrators of such acts would face justice, urging citizens to respect the rule of law as the foundation of peace and national progress.
The Deputy Minister also urged truck drivers, motorcyclists, and other road users to exercise caution to protect lives and property.
He emphasized the importance of respecting the Liberia National Police (LNP) as the backbone of law and order.
“If the police are not respected, who will ensure your safety as a citizen? Respect for law enforcement is critical to our collective security,” he noted.
Sando reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a better Liberia, underscoring the importance of accountability and adherence to the rule of law.
“Liberia is moving forward. This progress depends on unity, respect for the rule of law, and the collective will of all citizens to work toward national peace and prosperity,” he concluded.
