By Amos Harris
ONROVIA—Liberians celebrated National Flag Day on Monday with vibrant parades and displays of patriotism, but the ceremony was notably overshadowed by the absence of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and several high-ranking government officials.
The event, held at the BTC Barracks and the Centennial Pavilion on August 25, 2025, in Monrovia, lacked the traditional presence of the nation’s top leaders. Neither Vice President Jeremiah Koung, House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, nor Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence attended the celebrations.
Traditionally, the President of Liberia presides over the Flag Day ceremony, accepting salutes from students and security forces as a key symbol of national unity and pride. In a departure from this custom, Justice Minister Oswald Tweh represented the President and carried out the ceremonial duties.
The Executive Mansion has not provided an official reason for the President’s absence, and legislative leaders have also remained silent on their non-attendance.
Flag Day, officially a national holiday since 1915, is celebrated every August 24 to commemorate the adoption of Liberia’s national flag in 1847. The annual observance typically includes student parades, speeches, and cultural performances that highlight national identity.
While the celebration proceeded as scheduled, many in attendance expressed disappointment over the lack of leadership presence at such a significant national occasion. Analysts have pointed out that this appears to be the first time in recent memory that a sitting Liberian president has missed the Flag Day parade at the BTC Barracks.
The unusual absences have sparked intense public debate on social media and in political circles, with many calling on the government to provide an explanation. As of press time, no official statement has been released.
