By: Taisiah Merfee
IPNEWS: The Movement for Progressive Change (MPC) through its National Chairman condemns recent statement by President Joseph Boakai urging officials ‘share with Liberians if they steal public money’.
The MPC views the President statement as deeply troubling as blatantly encouraging corruption by government officials to stealing public funds, as long as they direct their illicit wealth towards aiding the poor.
MPC Chairman Onell Passaway said such statement is not only an endorsement of corruption but also a dangerous precedent that undermines the integrity of our government and institutions.
He said as a political party they are appalled by the president’s remarks, which suggest that theft from the public purse is acceptable if it is purportedly used to “bless the people.” This is an egregious misstep from a leader who should be focused on strengthening transparency, accountability, and ethical governance.
Passaway said the MPC is appalled that the president, rather than taking the necessary steps to eradicate corruption and address the root causes of poverty, has chosen to implicitly validate it as a tool for redistribution.
“No serious leader, in Liberia or anywhere in the world, should tolerate or encourage corrupt practices under any circumstances. President Boakai’s statement reveals a disturbing lack of commitment to the fight against corruption, and it sends a dangerous message that stealing from the state is permissible as long as it is done with the intention of benefitting the poor”.
According to him Such rhetoric directly contradicts the values of good governance, fairness, and justice, and only serves to perpetuate a culture of impunity.
He Further that this President Boakai statement undermines the critical work that needs to be done to restore trust in our government and build a society based on fairness and transparency.
Passaway narrated that It is precisely this kind of weak and irresponsible leadership that has allowed corruption to flourish in Liberia for decades,The MPC calls on President Boakai to retract his statement and take immediate steps to demonstrate a genuine commitment to ending corruption within the government.
“We remind the president that the MPC, under the leadership of Simeon Freeman, is committed to a future where transparency and accountability are paramount, If elected, the MPC will make the fight against corruption its top priority, ensuring that every government official is held to the highest standards of integrity, We will not tolerate any form of corruption, and we will work tirelessly to build a Liberia where our resources are used for the benefit of all citizens, not just a few corrupt elites”.
He said one of Liberia’s most people base people ficus political party the MPC will continue stands firm in our commitment to holding the government accountable, and we urge all officials within the current administration to reject the president’s dangerous message. It is time to restore integrity to the leadership and work together to address the serious challenges facing Liberia.
” The MPC will continue to stand as a strong voice for justice, transparency, and change,President Boakai must be held accountable for his words and actions, and the MPC will ensure that the Liberian people are never again misled by such reckless and destructive rhetoric”.
Recently, the Office of the President wishes to address recent misrepresentations and deliberate distortions of remarks made by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., regarding investment, corruption, and governance.
On Sunday, December 22, President Boakai delivered a heartfelt address during the 60th anniversary commemoration of Bong, Grand Gedeh, Lofa, and Nimba Counties acquiring county status. The event, held at Unification Park in Voinjama, Lofa County, was an opportunity to reflect on national unity, development, and pride.
During his address, the President spoke strongly against corruption, advocating for ethical stewardship and accountability in governance.
Contrary to recent claims, President Boakai’s remarks were not an endorsement of corruption but a clear denunciation of this vice and a call for integrity in public service and judicious use of public resources.
As a statesman known for his honesty and humility, President Boakai emphasized the need for public officials to reject corruption and use resources entrusted to them for the benefit of the Liberian people. His statement reaffirmed his Administration’s zero-tolerance for corruption and instead a firm commitment to good governance.
The Boakai-led Government remains unwavering in its fight against corruption. Key anti-corruption initiatives undertaken this year include:
• Anti-Corruption Audits: In February 2024, the President commissioned audits of key government institutions, including the Central Bank of Liberia, the National Security Agency, and the Executive Protection Service, covering activities from 2018 to 2023. These audits aim to address financial irregularities and ensure accountability.
• Suspension of Officials on account of corruption: Following these audits, President Boakai suspended Central Bank Governor Jolue Aloysius Tarlue in July 2024 due to unauthorized loans and overspending. In October 2024, senior officials of the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) were also suspended amid allegations of financial misconduct, pending investigations by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).
• Public Declarations to foster transparency and accountability: In August 2024, President Boakai cautioned newly commissioned officials that corruption would not be tolerated, emphasizing accountability and warning that violators would face consequences.
• International Anti-Corruption Day: On December 9, 2024, the President declared “International Anti-Corruption Day” to raise awareness and promote ethical governance nationwide.
Far from countenancing acts of dishonesty and theft, the Government of Liberia urges the public and media to consider the President’s statement in its full and accurate context, rejecting attempts by ill-intentioned political actors who are only driven by a motive to distort and win political points
President Boakai remains resolute in his vision for a Liberia defined by ethical leadership, unity, and inclusive development.
The Administration calls on all citizens and partners to join hands in fostering good governance, transparency, and lasting progress for the nation.
