By Grace Q. Bryant
The Alternative National Congress (ANC) Montserrado County Senatorial candidate in the 2023 elections, Victoria Koiquah has called on the need for accountability and transparency from the government of President Joseph Boakai.
Speaking on OK Morning Rush, Madam Koiquah emphasized that holding the President accountable is essential for maintaining the integrity of the administration and ensuring Liberia’s progress on the international stage.
“We cannot make the government look like fools. We should be there to hold President Boakai accountable. We should be able to look him in the face and remind him that he carries the legacy of Lofa. If he fails, it means any Lofian that comes after him will not be taken seriously.” She stressed.
Koiquah highlighted several missteps in President Boakai’s administration that need to be addressed.
She pointed to what she described as poorly made appointments and the confusion surrounding the announcement and subsequent withdrawal of some names. “For someone who has worked in government for over 40 years, these were not good decisions,” she noted.
“The Executive Mansion needs to take appropriate actions to correct these mistakes, even though it’s a little late. We’re seven months into the administration, and I believe he should step up his game because he still has more appointments to make.” She expressed.
She also called for President Boakai to be more familiar with the individuals he appoints, stressing the importance of understanding the kind of people he is working with. “The final listing should come to the President’s desk, and he should not be surprised by those he works with,” she added.
Koiquah further addressed the controversial issue of ‘the yellow machine’, a term referring to the government’s efforts to bring in earth moving equipment for development projects.
While expressing satisfaction with the acquisition of ‘the yellow machine’, she criticized the process involved. “We are happy for the yellow machine, but the process by which it came about needs to be re-evaluated. Let President Boakai tell the Liberian people that there were missteps in bringing the yellow machine into the country, but now we are committed to doing the right things so that the yellow machine can be operational in the counties,” she urged.
Madam Koiquah underscored the importance of establishing a proper system to ensure the country’s development and improvement. “Once you have a system working, the country will develop and improve,” she concluded.
In her interview, Madam Koiquah also spoke about the future of President Boakai’s political career, suggesting that he should not run in the 2029 elections. Instead, she proposed that he should assume the role of a godfather and king’s man, who guides and supports the next generation of leaders.
“He should have nothing to worry about in 2029 if he does the right thing now to elevate Liberia on the international stage,” she said.
Madam Koiquah also called on President Boakai to lead by example and correct administrative missteps which has resonated with many Liberians who seek a more transparent and effective government.
