Liberians are growing increasingly concerned about the whereabouts and activities of President Joseph Boakai, who departed for the United States on September 8, ostensibly to attend the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, the United States of America.
According to the Executive Mansion, President Boakai was scheduled to attend the UNGA, hold bilateral meetings, and participate in various side events. However, with the UNGA’s official commencement date set for September 23-29, questions are being raised about the President’s whereabouts since he left the country. Rumors have surfaced suggesting that President Boakai may be hospitalized in Rhode Island for a medical procedure related to his pacemaker. This device is crucial for helping people with certain heart issues, like bradycardia, heart block, and arrhythmias. About eight years back, President Boakai shared with the Liberian people that he was living with a pacemaker and required regular medical check-ups. It was later revealed that former President George Weah stepped in to cover Boakai’s medical expenses, giving him a much-needed second chance at life.
The Executive Mansion is keeping mum about the President’s health and any pre-UNGA activities he might have. Meanwhile, there’s an unusual surge in security presence on the streets of Monrovia, especially at night. Sources close to the Executive Mansion have revealed that Vice President Jeremiah Koung has started holding discreet meetings at night with a select group of high-ranking officials, but the purpose of these gatherings remains a mystery. Back in Liberia, the economy is collapsing, with prices of basic commodities soaring and the Liberian Dollar becoming increasingly scarce. Reports of ministerial misconduct, including allegations of fraud and rape, have also heightened widespread concern. As the President’s absence continues, Liberians are demanding more transparency and updates on his activities and engagements. The lack of information has fueled speculation and anxiety among citizens, who are eager to know how their leader’s trip is benefiting the country.
President Joseph Boakai’s frequent trips abroad have ignited a heated debate in Liberia. Many citizens feel that these excursions haven’t brought any real benefits to the country. Instead, they believe that the significant funds spent on these travels could have been better directed toward urgent domestic issues, like the terrible state of the roads and the struggling economy. A major point of contention regarding President Boakai’s foreign trips is the large entourage he often brings along, which includes high-ranking government officials, ministers, and legislators. This has led to accusations of extravagance and wastefulness, especially in light of Liberia’s current economic challenges. Critics argue that the president’s actions go against his campaign promises of fiscal responsibility and modest leadership. The controversy surrounding his use of private jets for these trips has only added to the public’s frustration.
As Liberia continues to grapple with economic difficulties, citizens are calling on their leaders to put the needs of the people first, rather than indulging in personal interests and extravagance. While the exact location of President Joseph Boakai remains a mystery, some worried Liberians living in the US have started reaching out to local police for help in locating him. They hope to bring him back to Liberia in good spirits so he can reclaim his leadership role before chaos breaks out in the country.
