By Amos Harris
Monrovia, Liberia — Alexander B. Cummings, the political leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), has declared Liberia’s growing drug crisis a “national emergency” during a recent visit to the West Point community. Situated in District #7, West Point is one of Monrovia’s most vulnerable areas, plagued by poverty, unemployment, and limited social services.
Speaking to residents, many of whom are young people struggling with addiction, Cummings called for urgent and decisive action to tackle what he described as a threat to the nation’s future. “This crisis is destroying our future,” Cummings told the crowd. “Government must do more. We cannot only arrest the small users and petty dealers; we must go after the big fish bringing drugs into our country.”
Cummings emphasized that his visit was a demonstration of solidarity with young Liberians caught in the grip of substance abuse, not a political stunt. He asserted that the fight against drugs requires both government intervention and community action. “While it is the responsibility of the government to protect its citizens, we as a people must also play our part,” he said. “I am joining this fight, and together, we will eradicate this crisis from our beloved country.”
During the visit, the ANC Youth Congress distributed food and clothing to residents. The party says this effort is part of a broader commitment to supporting communities impacted by drug abuse and poverty.
West Point, a densely populated coastal slum, is home to thousands of at-risk youth. The community has long struggled with poor living conditions and limited access to social services, and drug addiction, particularly among young men, has become a growing concern in recent years.
Cummings’ presence was received warmly by many residents. Some described the visit as a rare show of compassion and concern from a national political figure. “We feel seen,” said one community member. “Most people don’t come here unless it’s campaign season. But today we felt heard.”
By highlighting the drug issue in West Point, Cummings has positioned himself not only as a political leader but also as an advocate for youth and marginalized communities. He joins a growing number of voices calling for a more coordinated and sustained national response to Liberia’s drug crisis, including investment in prevention, rehabilitation, and law enforcement efforts.
The visit comes amid increased public concern over the proliferation of narcotics in Liberia, particularly synthetic drugs like “kush” and tramadol, which are widely available and often used by young people in poor urban communities. Cummings has pledged to remain actively involved in advocacy and support efforts, stating that Liberia must treat the drug crisis with the urgency it deserves.
