Monrovia –The ruling Unity Party (UP) has issued a stern warning against what it describes as a troubling rise in unauthorized use of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr.’s image, calling it a step toward the sycophantic idolization of the presidency.
By Willie N. Tokpah
The party in a press statement issued on Friday, January 3, noted that such attribute is a hallmark of past administrations, which it has vowed to avoid.
In a statement, the UP expressed alarm at the proliferation of President Boakai’s portrait on billboards, coffee mugs, clothing, trophies, and posters, often linked to public events or items distributed on his behalf.
The party labeled these actions as an unwelcome attempt to foster undue loyalty and to credit the president for personal favors, undermining the spirit of modest and transparent governance.
“The President of the Republic of Liberia and Standard Bearer of the Unity Party is committed to breaking away from the imperial tendencies of the past. These practices must stop,” the statement declared.
The Unity Party drew a clear line, stating that the president’s image should only be used for official purposes in line with established state protocols.
These events according to him, include state visits involving foreign dignitaries or government-endorsed national initiatives.
As such, the party has warned individuals and institutions involved to desist immediately, as such actions could erode public trust in a government striving to prioritize national interest over personal glorification.
“This government stands firm on principles of integrity, humility, and professionalism. We cannot and will not allow the presidency to be turned into an object of personal adulation,” the party stated.
The UP’s rebuke comes as President Boakai nears the end of his first year in office, a period marked by significant progress in governance reforms and developmental initiatives.
However, the party warned that such gains could be undermined if individuals and institutions replicate behaviors that the UP vehemently criticized during previous administrations.
Without naming specific culprits, the Unity Party pledged to hold accountable any individual or group engaging in these practices.
At the same time, the Unity Party urged its supporters and the Liberian public to focus on President Boakai’s developmental agenda, which it claims is positioning the nation for sustained growth.
It called for unity and vigilance to ensure that Liberia continues what it described as an “irreversible path to great.”
As the Liberia steps into 2025, the Unity Party reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a governance style grounded in modesty and national service, reiterating that the presidency is a position of public trust and not a platform for personality cult.
