MONROVIA – The National Youth Congress of the opposition Alternative National Congress (ANC) has accused the Unity Party-led Government of failing to effectively combat narcotics trafficking and corruption, calling for an independent international investigation into recent high-profile drug seizures and other alleged governance scandals.
By Francis G. Boayue
In a “State of the Youth Report” released on Saturday, August 1, the youth wing, through its Chairman, Alieu Kiadii, described Liberia as being at a critical crossroads, alleging that criminal networks have infiltrated key state institutions and warning that the country’s future is under threat if decisive action is not taken.
The statement follows the recent interception of narcotics reportedly valued at approximately US$500 million, which the ANC Youth Congress characterized as evidence of what it called a growing national security crisis.
The group alleged that institutions responsible for safeguarding the country, including the National Security Agency (NSA), the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) and the Liberia National Police (LNP), have failed to adequately address the growing threat posed by drug trafficking.
The youth congress further referenced the names of several senior security officials in relation to the ongoing public discussion surrounding the drug investigation and urged authorities to ensure that any allegations are subjected to an impartial and transparent legal process.
The statement also referred to recent public comments by Jojo Boakai, son of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, arguing that his remarks regarding associates allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking raise questions that should be addressed through an independent investigation.
The group additionally alleged that individuals linked to Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung have been associated with narcotics-related activities.
The ANC Youth Congress, however, did not provide evidence to substantiate those allegations.
“We do not trust this government to investigate itself,” the organization declared, calling on the international community—particularly the United States Government—to support or lead an independent investigation into the recent drug seizures and any alleged involvement of public officials.
The youth congress further criticized President Boakai’s Leadership, arguing that his administration has not responded decisively to the country’s security and governance challenges.
The statement also renewed concerns over a reported US$10 million project in Foya District, Lofa County, alleging that the project lacked transparency and public accountability.
The group claimed it had petitioned the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to investigate the matter and accused the commission of delaying action because the alleged beneficiaries are members of the ruling Unity Party.
The ANC Youth Congress called for a comprehensive audit of the project and urged authorities to publicly disclose the findings of any investigation.
Beyond the specific allegations, the organization warned that narcotics trafficking poses broader social and economic dangers, arguing that drug cartels threaten Liberia’s youth, weaken educational institutions, undermine legitimate commerce, discourage investment and deepen poverty.
Calling on Liberians to remain vigilant, the youth congress urged citizens to demand greater transparency, accountability and stronger action against corruption and organized crime.
The Boakai’s Administration has consistently maintained that it remains committed to combating corruption and transnational crime, while state security institutions have pledged to investigate narcotics-related offenses in accordance with Liberian law.
As of the issuance of the ANC Youth Congress statement, the government had not publicly responded to the specific allegations contained in the report.
The ANC Youth Congress concluded by urging the President to take what it described as decisive action, while appealing to the international community and the Liberian people to support efforts aimed at strengthening accountability, transparency and the rule of law.
