MONROVIA – Economist Sam Jackson has launched a scathing critique of the Unity Party (UP) government under President Joseph Boakai, accusing the administration of dishonesty, mismanagement, and ineffective appointments. In a detailed commentary, Jackson labeled the current government as “an administration of liars and fraudsters,” criticizing both supporters and officials for their conduct.
In a social media statement on Tuesday, May 27, 2024, Jackson rebuked the Unity Party’s claim that they were unable to criticize the government during the six years of Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) rule, calling it “a blatant lie.” He reminded them of numerous protests and campaigns against the CDC, including the June 7, 2019, protest, the January 2020 demonstrations, the “Weah Step Down” campaign, and the “Bring Our Money Back” campaign. He highlighted the large public gatherings and protests, such as the welcoming of Council of Patriots (COP) leader Henry P. Costa, which saw breaches of public assembly and safety laws.
He emphasized that the CPP, led by Alexander Cummings and Joseph Boakai, held countless press conferences and openly criticized the CDC administration. He stated that no rights to assemble or free speech were violated during the CDC’s tenure. Jackson underscored his personal experience as a frequent critic of the government, recalling his visit to Liberia in 2019 where he openly criticized President Weah and his administration without facing any repercussions.
Highlighting the democratic nature of the CDC government, Jackson praised former President Weah for his conduct during the elections. He emphasized that Weah conceded power to the opposition even before the official results were announced and attended the inauguration of President Boakai. Jackson noted that this act was a significant demonstration of respect for the democratic process.
Acknowledging the faults of the Weah administration, which faced sanctions due to various issues, Jackson refuted claims that the government obstructed free speech or democratic processes. He argued that these allegations are an attempt to conceal the missteps and false starts of the Boakai administration in its fourth month.
Turning his attention to the current Boakai administration, Jackson pointed out several issues, including the failure of the Asset Recovery initiative. He criticized the breaking of tenure laws and President Boakai’s refusal to disclose his asset declaration. Jackson also condemned the diversion of pensioners’ money to fund the inauguration, calling it a misuse of public funds.
Jackson further criticized the Boakai administration for the increase in prices of basic commodities, including rice, which has placed an additional burden on ordinary Liberians. He expressed concern over the willful disregard for fiscal rules and the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) guidelines in the purchase of 285 earth-moving equipment, suggesting that these actions signal poor governance.
Additionally, Jackson didn’t mince words regarding President Boakai’s committee set-up for food security. He questioned the efficacy of appointing Charles Minor and David Vinton to key positions aimed at improving food security in Liberia. “What innovation and creativity can 80-year-old men bring to improving food security in Liberia?” Jackson wrote. “Mr. Charles Minor and David Vinton are two decent and intelligent individuals, but they’ve long passed their prime to contribute anything meaningful to food security in Liberia.”
Jackson’s critique extended to President Boakai’s decision-making process, suggesting that the president’s preference for appointing long-time associates to important roles may not serve the best interests of the country. “I don’t know why JNB insists on giving his old friends responsibility to manage the affairs of the state,” Jackson added.
Warning that lies and deception might win elections but cannot sustain good governance and economic development, Jackson stressed that the Boakai administration needs to adopt transparent and honest governance practices to succeed.
In his concluding remarks, Jackson urged the Boakai administration to govern with truth and honesty, and to recognize the rights of CDC supporters. He emphasized that respecting the democratic rights of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, is crucial for national unity and progress.
“If the Boakai administration is to succeed, and all patriotic Liberians would like to see that, it must govern with truth, honesty, and recognize those who support the CDC as citizens with rights and privileges in our democratic dispensation,” Jackson concluded.
