Moses D. Sandy, former National President of the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA), has publicly criticized President Joseph Nyuma Boakai's appointment practices, accusing him of favoring individuals from Lofa County, particularly from the Gbandi and Kissi tribes. Sandy, a US-based Liberian journalist, expressed concerns that this trend may lead to social unrest and political instability in Liberia. He emphasized that all Liberians should have equal opportunities for political appointments, regardless of their county or tribe.
According to Sandy, President Boakai's appointments have been biased towards Lofians, with many key ministries and agencies led by individuals from Lofa County. These include the Ministries of Commerce, Local Government, Finance and Development Planning, and Education, as well as the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), and Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA). Sandy also mentioned that the heads of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS), and Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) have ties to Lofa County.
Sandy drew parallels between President Boakai's appointment practices and historical events that led to instability in Liberia. He recalled the 1980 coup that overthrew President William R. Tolbert, citing marginalization of native Liberians, and the 1989 civil war launched by Charles Taylor's National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL), which accused the Samuel K. Doe administration of uneven appointments. Sandy warned that Boakai's actions may put Liberia on a similar path of systemic instability, social unrest, and political upheaval.
The former ALJA head also accused President Boakai of hypocrisy, given the Unity Party's (UP) campaign rhetoric against nepotism, regionalism, and tribalism. Sandy stated that Boakai's actions contradict his January 22, 2024, inauguration declaration that "this will not be business as usual." He urged Boakai to rethink his appointment practices, emphasizing that the UP risks losing the 2029 presidential re-election bid if they don't change.
Sandy stressed that Lofa County is a subset of Liberia and that the county can't guarantee a second term for Boakai and the UP if Liberians from other counties feel marginalized. He warned that even if Boakai's administration achieves development milestones, the people may still vote against him if they feel underrepresented or unappreciated.
The ALJA National President emeritus called on President Boakai to prioritize inclusivity in government appointments, ensuring that all Liberians have equal opportunities. He emphasized that this approach will help prevent social unrest and promote stability in the country.
As the 2029 re-election bid approaches, Sandy's comments highlight the importance of addressing concerns around appointment practices and promoting inclusivity in government. The issue remains to be addressed by President Boakai's administration, with many Liberians watching closely to see if changes will be made.
Key points
- Moses Sandy criticizes President Boakai's appointments, citing Lofa dominance and potential for social unrest.
- Sandy warns that Boakai's actions may lead to systemic instability, social unrest, and political upheaval.
- The former ALJA head accuses Boakai of hypocrisy, given the Unity Party's campaign rhetoric against nepotism and tribalism.
