Monrovia – Liberia’s fragile democracy is facing an unprecedented test under the leadership of President Joseph N. Boakai, who assumed office in January 2024. Over the past 12 months, his administration has faced mounting accusations of undermining the democratic progress painstakingly achieved over the last two decades. Concerns have emerged over blatant disregard for constitutional norms, violations of tenure laws, attacks on press freedom, and allegations of human rights abuses. Analysts and political commentators warn that these actions pose serious threats to the foundations of Liberia’s democracy.
By Dr. Clarence R. Pearson, Sr., contributing writer
A notable flashpoint has been the administration’s handling of tenure laws. Several government officials across various institutions have been unlawfully dismissed, disregarding Supreme Court rulings meant to protect the sanctity of these appointments. The recent suspension of Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC), has drawn particular concern. The NEC plays a critical role in safeguarding electoral integrity, and this move has raised questions about the administration’s commitment to free and fair elections in the run-up to several pending special elections, including to replace fallen Sen. Prince Y. Johnson of Nimba County.
Equally alarming are the escalating attacks on journalists and media outlets, as documented by the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) in September and December 2024. Several reporters have faced threats, harassment, and physical attacks, stifling freedom of speech and the press. There were also crackdown on dissent that coincides with reports of extrajudicial killings civilians by elements of the Liberia National Police (LNP) in Grand Cape Mount County, Rehab Community in Paynesville City, including incidents involving manhandling civilians engaged in peaceful protests. The mysterious disappearance of detainees, such as Liberian-Guinean Ibrahim Khalil Cherif, further erodes public trust in the justice system, as court orders to produce detainees have been blatantly ignored.
The legislature, too, has not been spared from these undemocratic tendencies. In December 2024, elected members of the House of Representatives were reportedly brutalized by the LNP amid the unconstitutional removal of the Speaker of the 55th National Legislature. Peaceful citizens protesting this removal and advocating for the rule of law were met with excessive force, leaving many wounded and others detained. Adding to the turmoil, a fire gutted the Joint Chamber of the Capitol Building, raising questions about the administration’s ability to safeguard critical state infrastructure.
These troubling developments extend to Liberia’s security apparatus, which has been accused of torture and coercion during national security investigations. Opposition politicians and their supporters have alleged targeted persecution, fueling fears of a politically motivated crackdown. Corruption and infighting within the ruling Unity Party compound the crisis, with critics pointing to a lack of cohesive leadership and transparency.
Amid these challenges, Liberia’s international partners, particularly the United States, have adopted a conspicuous “wait and see” posture. This perceived inaction by the nation’s most influential allies has left many Liberians feeling abandoned in their struggle to uphold democratic norms. Observers warn that without international intervention, the current trajectory could lead to further erosion of governance and human rights.
As Liberia navigates this tumultuous chapter, questions loom over the future of its democracy. Will President Boakai’s administration heed the growing calls for accountability, or will the country’s democratic gains unravel under the weight of these crises? The coming months will be pivotal in determining whether Liberia can restore its democratic ideals or succumb to authoritarian tendencies.
