Liberians eagerly await President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, January 27, 2025, under the theme “Rescue to Development: Implementing the ARREST Agenda.” As the country marks the first anniversary of the Unity Party-led government, expectations are high that the president will offer a clear and compelling vision for the country’s future. However, as Boakai takes center stage at the National Legislature, the address comes at a pivotal time when the public is questioning whether the promises of his government will finally lead to lasting change or if Liberia’s political trajectory will remain entangled in the same cycles of inefficiency and unmet promises.
The “Rescue to Development” theme, while aspirational, is loaded with implicit challenges. The ARREST Agenda, which is meant to guide Liberia’s recovery, growth, and governance for the coming years, remains the cornerstone of President Boakai’s political strategy. The agenda aims to address critical issues such as corruption, unemployment, infrastructure deficits, public service reform, and security. However, there is a growing sense among the public that the results have been underwhelming in some key areas, and the anniversary of Boakai’s presidency presents an opportunity for introspection.
When the ARREST Agenda was unveiled, it was heralded as a much-needed framework for transforming Liberia’s ailing institutions. The acronym itself, standing for Accountability, Reform, Economic Development, Security, and Transparency, sets ambitious goals that resonate with Liberia’s urgent needs. In theory, these priorities could propel the country toward a future of stability, prosperity, and justice. However, as Liberians reflect on the past year, it is clear that the administration has made only modest progress in translating these broad goals into tangible outcomes.
Take, for instance, the promise of greater accountability. Since the beginning of President Boakai’s tenure, there have been several high-profile cases involving corruption, most notably involving key figures within his own administration. One of the most contentious issues has been the dismissal of key officials linked to financial mismanagement, which some critics claim was driven more by political maneuvering than genuine efforts at reform. The resignation of Deputy Governor Nyemadi Pearson, amid corruption allegations, is a prime example. While the move was hailed as an effort to maintain public trust, it raised questions about the level of transparency and internal checks within Boakai’s government. How many more officials need to be removed before the public sees substantive reforms in government institutions?
On the issue of economic development, Liberia’s recovery from the economic fallout of the Weah administration’s term remains sluggish. Despite some improvement in key sectors, such as mining and agriculture, the wider economy continues to face challenges such as inflation, currency depreciation, and a lack of sufficient investment in infrastructure. For many Liberians, especially those living in rural areas, the promises of economic growth feel far removed from their daily reality. Youth unemployment remains a persistent problem, with no clear roadmap from the government to address this crisis. The government’s failure to introduce significant fiscal reforms to stimulate private sector growth and job creation is a point of concern for those hoping for a shift toward long-term economic sustainability.
Another pillar of the ARREST Agenda, reform, has similarly been a mixed bag. While there have been efforts to push for judicial reforms, the process remains slow, with the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the General Auditing Commission (GAC) struggling to maintain momentum in prosecuting high-profile cases. A key test for the Boakai administration will be how it handles the issue of the War Crimes Court, a longstanding demand from Liberian civil society organizations. The president has yet to make a decisive move on this matter, and this inaction could undermine his credibility when it comes to genuine efforts to address Liberia’s post-conflict wounds.
However, security, perhaps one of the most pressing issues for everyday Liberians, has not seen the same level of attention it warrants. While the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and the Liberia National Police (LNP) continue to perform vital roles in maintaining order, the rising concerns of violent crime in urban areas and across the countryside remain a serious threat. President Boakai must demonstrate a firm commitment to improving public safety and investing in law enforcement agencies that are better equipped to handle Liberia’s security needs. As the election cycle approaches, the role of security forces in managing protests, political demonstrations, and election-related unrest will become even more critical. If the government fails to address these concerns adequately, it could risk deepening public dissatisfaction and instability.
As Boakai prepares to deliver his message to the nation, he must also acknowledge the rising discontent among ordinary Liberians. While the administration has made notable strides in improving diplomatic relations and positioning Liberia on the international stage, it is the everyday struggles of the populace that will eventually determine the success of his presidency. The president’s leadership style has been largely described as measured and cautious, a trait that many of his supporters believe is necessary in these challenging times. Yet, this same cautious approach may be perceived as indecision or a lack of urgency by those demanding quicker and more radical reforms.
Moreover, the anniversary of his presidency comes at a time when Liberia’s political landscape is growing increasingly polarized. The opposition remains vocal in its criticism of Boakai’s handling of key issues such as corruption, government transparency, and his lack of action on promised judicial reforms. The question on the minds of many is whether Boakai, after one year in office, can deliver on the lofty promises made during his campaign. Many in the public view the ARREST Agenda as little more than a set of high-minded ideals that have yet to be backed by concrete actions.
As Liberia enters a new year under Boakai’s leadership, the president must carefully pilot the complex dynamics of governance, balancing his promises with the reality on the ground. The public’s patience is thinning, and the expectation is that the president will use his SONA to provide a clear path forward, one that will answer the pressing questions of accountability, economic prosperity, and social justice. A failure to do so may risk not only his political legacy but also the stability and future of Liberia itself.
In conclusion, President Boakai’s SONA will be more than just a ceremonial address. It will serve as a critical moment of reckoning for his administration. The country is at a crossroads, Liberians have witnessed enough promises and delays. The country needs action, accountability, and genuine reform. The success of the ARREST Agenda hinges on whether the government can convert its theoretical goals into tangible outcomes that address the daily challenges faced by ordinary citizens. President Boakai’s ability to instill confidence, reaffirm his commitment to transparency, and deliver on his promises will determine whether Liberia’s future under his leadership will truly be one of rescue and development or if it will be yet another missed opportunity.
