Five Parties Challenge Boakai -Communiqué demands probes into Foya, SIB

Five opposition political parties have issued a joint communiqué criticizing the government of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on issues ranging from the Liberia-Guinea border dispute to corruption, drug investigations and freedom of expression.

The September 27 document brings together the Alternative National Congress (ANC), the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), the Movement for Economic Empowerment (MOVEE), the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC) and the Union of Liberian Democrats Party (ULDP).

Border and Foreign Policy

The opposition accused the government of failing to respond adequately to Guinea’s alleged occupation of Liberian territory in Foya District, Lofa County, and called for stronger diplomatic action. On foreign policy, the signatories criticized the government’s handling of relations with the European Union (EU), particularly the recall of the EU Ambassador, and called for greater tolerance of diplomatic criticism. The parties also demanded greater transparency regarding the proposed transfer of up to 1,200 foreign nationals from the United States to Liberia.

Corruption and Drug Probes

The communiqué called for independent investigations into allegations surrounding the US$10 million (L$1.72 billion) Foya construction project and a US$8 million (L$1.37 billion) transfer of Central Bank of Liberia reserves to SIB Liberia, among other cases. The opposition further demanded an independent investigation into the reported US$19 million (L$3.26 billion) and US$317 million (L$54.43 billion) drug seizures and raised concerns about what it described as selective prosecution.

Courts, Speech and Weah

On the rule of law, the opposition alleged political interference in judicial matters and called for respect for Supreme Court decisions and judicial independence. The parties also criticized what they described as restrictions on criticism of government officials, including the use of the Cybercrime Act, and called for stronger protection of constitutional free speech.

The communiqué condemned what the signatories described as a threatening security environment surrounding former President George Manneh Weah’s return to Liberia in September 2026. It also raised concerns about property demolitions, access to government procurement and opportunities for Liberian-owned businesses.

Economy, Health and Education

The signatories argued that economic growth and increased domestic revenue have not sufficiently improved conditions for poor Liberians, unemployed people and small businesses. On health and education, the parties contended that both sectors remain constrained by inadequate investment, low remuneration and outdated approaches.

A Framework for Cooperation

The communiqué presents a framework for continued opposition cooperation, rather than simply opposition to the government. The signatories committed themselves to promoting constitutional democracy, accountable and transparent government, judicial independence, equal justice, economic opportunity, employment, public-sector accountability and broader national development.