MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Mulbah K. Morlu, head of the advocacy group Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), has sharply criticized President Joseph Boakai’s leadership, alleging that his declining health and weak decision-making pose a threat to Liberia’s governance. Morlu, who previously served as chairman of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), claimed that Boakai lacks the physical and mental capacity to lead effectively.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) Day celebration on February 11, 2025, Morlu described the president as a “symbolic figurehead” controlled by political operatives within his administration. He argued that Boakai’s apparent frailty, evidenced by his reliance on aides for mobility, raises serious concerns about his ability to manage state affairs. He pointed to the president’s use of a vehicle to inspect military troops rather than walking the traditional distance, calling it a reflection of Boakai’s deteriorating condition rather than a security precaution.
According to Morlu, Boakai’s struggles go beyond physical limitations. He accused the president of cognitive decline, claiming that he frequently loses track of discussions and appears disconnected from key policy matters. He asserted that Liberia is at risk of political instability under Boakai’s leadership, as his alleged inability to govern effectively creates opportunities for corruption and internal power struggles.
Expressing disappointment, Morlu said he had initially hoped Boakai’s leadership would defy expectations. He stated that despite opposing him in the elections, he had remained silent for a year, giving the new administration the benefit of the doubt. However, he argued that recent events have reinforced his belief that Boakai is incapable of running the country.
Morlu accused the administration of being riddled with corruption, arguing that officials close to the president are enriching themselves while the public suffers. He dismissed recent anti-corruption measures as mere political theatrics, claiming that suspended officials continue to benefit from state resources without facing real consequences. He insisted that an effective leader would not only remove corrupt figures but also hold them accountable for stolen funds.
Citing international comparisons, Morlu drew parallels between Boakai and former U.S. President Joe Biden, who has faced scrutiny over his age and cognitive abilities. However, he claimed that Boakai’s situation is worse, as Liberia lacks the institutional safeguards to compensate for a weak head of state. He suggested that those surrounding Boakai are exploiting his condition for political gain, using him as a figurehead while controlling decision-making behind the scenes.
Morlu also warned that the country could face heightened instability if the situation remains unchecked. He suggested that the growing frustration among Liberians is fueled by a lack of decisive leadership and worsening economic conditions. He argued that Boakai’s inability to take firm action has emboldened corrupt officials and left key institutions vulnerable to manipulation.
In his statement, Morlu lamented what he described as Liberia’s decline under the current administration. He accused regime supporters of ignoring the reality of Boakai’s condition while pushing a narrative that serves their personal interests. He called on Liberians to recognize the dangers of a leader who, in his view, is incapable of steering the country through its current challenges.
According to Morlu, Boakai’s advanced age presents challenges that cannot be ignored. He argued that leadership at the highest level requires sharp decision-making, agility, and strong engagement with national and international matters—qualities he believes the president lacks. He urged political actors to consider the long-term consequences of maintaining what he described as an ineffective presidency.
Morlu’s remarks add to the ongoing debate about Boakai’s capacity to govern, with opposition figures increasingly questioning his leadership. While the presidency has yet to respond directly to Morlu’s claims, supporters of the administration have dismissed such criticisms as politically motivated attacks aimed at undermining the government’s efforts.
Despite the backlash, Morlu maintains that Liberia is at a crossroads. He called on citizens to remain vigilant and demand accountability from those in power, warning that continued inaction could lead to deeper national crises.
