Jefferson Tamba Koijee, the Secretary General of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), has issued a pointed critique of the Liberian government under President Joseph Boakai. In a recent statement, Koijee accused the administration of fostering a climate of vendetta, tribal animosity, and the egregious misuse of state power. “Yesterday will be remembered as one of the most disgraceful and painful days in our nation’s recent history,” Koijee remarked. “On this day, Mr. Boakai demonstrated to the world that his government is not founded on principles of justice or patriotism, but rather on vendetta, tribal hatred, and the ruthless abuse of state authority.” He further emphasized the historical context of Boakai’s leadership, stating, “Let us not forget that this is the same Joseph Boakai who served under a regime that infamously executed 13 of Liberia’s esteemed statesmen in 1980—an act that ignited a civil war resulting in the loss of over 250,000 lives. The dangerous mindset that characterized that era is resurfacing under his administration. The signs are evident, and only those unwilling to see will remain blind to them.”
Koijee also condemned the recent arrests of two prominent women, Madam Thelma E. Sawyer and Madam Mary Tanyonoh Broh. Sawyer, the widow of former Interim President Amos Claudius Sawyer, and Broh, a former government official who played a pivotal role in Liberia’s response to the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic, have become symbols of the government’s troubling trajectory. Madam Sawyer and Madam Broh were forcibly removed from their homes and incarcerated. The Congress for Democratic Change has condemned the government’s actions, highlighting the women’s unwavering commitment to public service and their significant contributions to the nation.
The CDC Secretary General has also expressed concerns regarding alleged corruption within the government, specifically referencing a contentious office lease involving the Assets Recovery Team and the expenditure on billboards. Former Mayor Koijee characterized these actions as blatant corruption and economic sabotage. In a troubling and dishonorable move, Kla-Martin clandestinely signed a controversial office lease valued at US$311,200 and committed to an additional US$9,800 per month for ineffective billboards, all conducted in secrecy without public disclosure, consultation with his own team, or the necessary approval from the legally mandated Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC). This behavior is not governance; it is corruption in its most egregious form—economic sabotage veiled in the arrogance of power, as asserted by former Mayor Koijee.
The Secretary General cautioned that Liberia is treading a perilous path. He reminded those who may celebrate the current abuse of power that yesterday’s silence contributed to the darkest chapters of our nation’s history. He warned that the country is witnessing the resurgence of tyranny masquerading as leadership. If the citizens do not rise to resist these economic opportunists and tribal witch-hunters, the Liberia we cherish—the Liberia for which our ancestors fought and sacrificed—may soon be lost. Koijee’s remarks serve as a clarion call for vigilance and accountability in the face of rising authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic values in Liberia.
