Author: Editorial Board

TWO RECENT missteps have put President Joseph Boakai and his government under the microscope – a controversial trip by the President to Accra, Ghana, and Vice President Jeremiah Koung’s domineering influence and conflict of interest regarding the use of the private plane of a Ghanaian businessman with multiple interests in Liberia.

IN THE WAKE OF RECENT EVENTS, Liberia finds itself at a crossroads where the unexpected lack of appointments and completion of the National Security framework has laid bare the vulnerabilities within the nation’s security apparatus. The ominous signs of inadequate coordination in intelligence and protection mechanisms highlight a critical need for immediate action, particularly from President Boakai, to fortify the country’s national security institutions.

AS FAR BACK as 1739, Benjamin Franklin, the American inventor, statesman and accomplished publisher and printer, published in his annual Almanack, “Poor Richard”, an adage that has now become one of the world’s most famous sayings, often used as a reminder that people should be cautious of the company they keep.

ON THE EVE of this week’s runoff elections, Justice Minister Frank Musah Dean issued a stern warning to all actors in the ongoing electoral process to steer clear of announcing results of the runoff ahead of the National Elections Commission, the statutory body charged with the mandate to conduct elections, which includes announcement of results.

IN THE AFTERMATH of Tuesday’s runoff election, one glaring issue demands our immediate attention and introspection: the shockingly low voter turnout. The disappointing numbers reveal a disheartening reality about our collective commitment to the democratic process and, by extension, our national well-being. It is a matter of grave concern that, as citizens of this great nation, we seem to be losing sight of the importance of active civic engagement, a fundamental pillar on which our democracy stands.

IN THE WORLD OF POLITICS, there are few things as fundamental as respecting the will of the people. In a democracy, the ballot box is the ultimate arbiter, and the voice of the people should be held in the highest regard. In Plebo Sodeken District, the people have spoken loudly and clearly, and it is time for Speaker Bhofal Chambers to heed their message.

THE CHIEF OF STAFF of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Major General Prince C. Johnson III, has crossed a critical line by involving the military in civil matters. The recent arrest of Deputy Director of the National Security Agency (NSA), Sam Siryon, is an alarming demonstration of the military’s overreach into civilian issues, raising questions about the boundaries that must be maintained in a democratic society. SAM SIRYON’S arrest came on the heels of a controversial broadcast on his radio station, Freedom FM, in which it was insinuated that Major General Prince C. Johnson III was collaborating with the opposition…

LAST OCTOBER, authorities in Liberia, working in collaboration with US international narcotics agency, seized some $US100 million worth of cocaine, the largest in the country’s history and one-fifth of its national budget.

THE RECENT NOT GUILTY verdict in the high-profile $100 million drug bust trial has sent shockwaves through Liberia’s justice system, leaving the Ministry of Justice appalled and concerned. This verdict not only undermines Liberia’s collective efforts to combat drug trafficking but also exposes potential flaws in the country’s judicial processes. The need for urgent reforms to the jury trial system and increased funding for prosecutors has become glaringly apparent. It is crucial for all branches of the government to shoulder the responsibility and take immediate action to address these challenges.

AS LIBERIA PREPARES for the upcoming October 10th elections, it is crucial to focus on the importance of providing basic civic education to first-time voters. The youth in Liberia make up a significant portion of the population, and it is essential to ensure that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in the democratic process.