The National Democratic Coalition (NDC) says it acknowledges the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. delivered in fulfilment of Article 58 of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia.
‘‘The Address is welcomed as both a constitutional duty and a vital opportunity for national reflection, accountability and forward planning,’’ the NDC stated.
As Liberia’s only social democratic party, the NDC situates its response in the spirit of solidarity, constructive dialogue and commitment to the long-term stability and inclusive development of our nation.
‘‘We applaud the measurable progress highlighted by the President while also underscoring the need for reforms that deepen equity, transparency, and social justice,’’ the NDC added.
The NDC commended the President’s reaffirmation of constitutional governance, the rule of law, and national unity, particularly in the aftermath of the Capitol Building Arson Attack.
‘‘We welcome the assurance that justice will be pursued impartially and that Liberia’s democracy will not be intimidated or reversed. The emphasis on cooperation among the three branches of government, grounded in mutual respect and dialogue, reflects principles essential to sustaining democratic stability and restoring public trust in state institutions.’’
The NDC recognized the passage of key legislation, including the Ministry of Local Government Act, the Liberia National Tourism Authority Act, and the National Food Assistance Agency Act, alongside financing agreements with development partners, saying . these nactments advance decentralization, economic diversification, and social protection.
The NDC also noted the Executive’s candid acknowledgment of delays in pending legislation and welcomes renewed commitment to reforms such as the Presidential Transition Act, Civil Service Commission Ache t, and anti-corruption law amendments. These measures, once enacted, will strengthen institutional integrity and ensure continuity in governance.
The NDC takes note of reported macroeconomic improvements, including a 5.1 percent GDP growth rate in 2025, declining inflation to 4 percent, improved foreign reserves, and increased export earnings. These indicators suggest progress toward stabilization after years of fiscal stress.
‘‘We particularly commend the historic performance in domestic revenue mobilization, which exceeded targets and supported Liberia’s largest national budget to date. These gains reflect improved tax administration, digitalization, and fiscal discipline. As a social democratic party, we stress that such progress must be sustained through transparency, equitable allocation of resources, and prioritization of “bread-and-butter” issues that directly impact ordinary Liberians.’’
The NDC said it welcomes the emphasis on attracting credible investments in mining, rail, energy, hydrocarbons, and agriculture, including major concession agreements and the reactivation of strategic assets.
‘‘We also recognize the Government’s efforts to remain current on debt obligations while managing a sizable public debt stock. Long-term resilience, however, will depend on diversification beyond extractive industries, strengthened environmental safeguards, and fair benefit-sharing with affected communities.’’
‘‘We commend progress in agriculture, including support to nearly 200,000 farmers directly or indirectly, feeder road rehabilitation, aquaculture expansion, and improved food security outcomes. These efforts align with the ARREST Agenda’s focus on productivity, job creation, and rural livelihoods. The prioritization of agribusiness, mechanization, and value-chain development is welcomed as a pathway to sustainable growth and youth employment.’’
The NDC acknowledges advances in road connectivity, electricity expansion, and public transport revitalization. Increased paved roads, rural electrification, tariff reductions, and renewable energy investments are positive steps toward inclusive development. Progress in digital transformation, telecommunications, port modernization, aviation upgrades, and public transport reform reflects a growing focus on competitiveness and service delivery.
‘‘We welcome improvements in education and health, including teacher recruitment, digital learning platforms, school feeding programs, reduced maternal mortality, expanded immunization coverage, and investments in health infrastructure. Expanded social protection initiatives targeting women, children, youth, and vulnerable households, alongside renewed attention to housing and sanitation, reflect progress toward social equity.’’
The NDC notes progress in audit compliance, procurement reform, asset declaration enforcement, and anti-corruption prosecutions. These efforts are vital to restoring confidence in public institutions.
‘‘We further welcome reforms in security, justice, civil service management, and land governance, including merit-based recruitment, improved frontline worker compensation, and measures to reduce land disputes.We acknowledge Liberia’s strengthened international standing, including renewed MCC eligibility, election to the UN Security Council, and active engagement within ECOWAS, the AU, and the Mano River Union. Enhanced diaspora engagement, reconciliation initiatives, and steps to address historical injustices are commendable, as peace, justice, and inclusion remain indispensable to national healing,’’ the NDC pointed out.
Meanwhile, the NDC affirms that the 2026 State of the Nation Address reflects measurable progress in several sectors while also highlighting areas requiring sustained effort, reform, and national consensus.
The NDC, among other things, also encourages the Ministry of Financial and Development Planning and relevant agencies to institutionalize regular public reporting on budget execution, concession agreements, and debt management.
