MONROVIA, LIBERIA – A purported Facebook post by Madam Kula Bonah Nyei Fofana, Press Secretary to President Joseph Boakai, has generated outrage on social media, drawing sharp criticism from citizens accusing her of insensitivity and arrogance. The post, reportedly made on Christmas Eve and later deleted, read:
“The government is not responsible for how you planned your life from January to December. Besides, all of us are not Christians, so why complain about Christmas being hard? JNB will fix it next year, please.”
Although Madam Fofana denied posting the statement, dismissing it as “cheap propaganda,” the damage was done. Social media users flooded the platform with criticism, accusing her of disrespecting citizens’ struggles during a challenging holiday season and failing to show empathy for the Christian majority in Liberia.
Prominent voices, including Peter C. Dorkpoh, Jr., expressed deep disappointment. In an open letter, he wrote:
“Your recent post is deeply concerning and, in my view, it’s one of the most reckless statements of 2024. It undermines the dedication and resilience of our people, who endured both rain and sun to ensure that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. leads our nation today. I sincerely hope such an act of carelessness does not occur again.”
Another commentator, known as “Ma Younger’s Son,” highlighted Liberia’s history of religious tolerance, stating:
“As you said, you’re a Muslim, and what you’re enjoying is the religious tolerance that Christians have always shown. Liberia is a Christian nation, and even our Declaration of Independence was signed in a church. Posts like yours will only make us lose faith in giving this administration another chance. Please focus on building bridges, not tearing us apart.”
Others, such as Hon. Akoi Korva and Torpuesashalovefaith Stephnamphaniemom Dillon, accused Fofana of arrogance, urging her to acknowledge wrongdoing rather than dismiss the issue.
Madam Fofana responded by denying responsibility for the post, calling it propaganda aimed at tarnishing her reputation. In a counter-statement, she said:
“Very cheap propaganda! Y’all try harder next time. I own up to what I write. Will never write such a crap. My Chrismos on your ownpah.”
This incident comes on the heels of President Joseph Boakai’s recent controversial remarks during the 60th-anniversary celebrations of county status for Bong, Grand Gedeh, Lofa, and Nimba Counties in Voinjama. The President allegedly stated, “We want to encourage those who want to remain corrupt and steal money; I beg y’all, the money should be used to bless our people.” The remarks have further fueled debates about the administration’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
Critics, including Gabriel Nah, argue that incidents like these emphasize the administration’s challenges in managing public relations effectively. In a Facebook comment, Nah further stated that the criticism of Fofana’s alleged post reflects wider frustrations with the government’s perceived indifference to the economic hardships faced by citizens.
