Senator Amara Konneh has called on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to take direct leadership in the nation’s ongoing battle against illicit drugs, warning that the persistent crisis at the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) is undermining public confidence and stalling progress on the President’s campaign promise of “Kush Must Go.”
According to the Senator, the constant dismissals and reshuffles within the LDEA — including the recent suspension of officers who arrested a Liberian woman at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) during a livestreamed operation — have weakened the Agency’s credibility and emboldened criminal cartels.
“Those officers should have been honored and promoted for their vigilance, not sidelined,” Konneh noted. “The firing of the Deputy for Administration, who publicly exposed the involvement of powerful government officials in the illicit drug trade, is another troubling sign that the cartels are at work.”
Senator Konneh attributed the leadership crisis at the LDEA to political interference within the ruling alliance and possible infiltration by drug cartels. He stressed that without stability and professionalism at the Agency, the administration cannot make meaningful gains in curbing drug abuse.
Call for a Concrete National Action Plan
The Senator urged the Boakai administration to develop a comprehensive national strategy against illicit drugs, focusing not just on enforcement but also on prevention and rehabilitation.
“Our young people who are struggling with addiction are the real victims. They need support, not neglect. Liberia must strengthen its health infrastructure with professional rehabilitation programs while also deploying modern technology, stronger law enforcement, and regional cooperation to tackle trafficking,” Konneh said.
He likened the drug epidemic to Liberia’s Ebola crisis a decade ago, pointing out that the country overcame Ebola and later managed COVID-19 through unity, resilience, and decisive leadership. “We can do it again if we treat this drug crisis with the same urgency,” he emphasized.
Role of the Legislature
Responding to criticism that the legislature is complacent, Konneh clarified that lawmakers are focused on strengthening the legal framework and exercising oversight. “We already have a strong drug law, and we are reviewing it for further improvements. However, funding remains a major gap. Without a viable strategy and proper resources, the fight will remain ineffective.”
He pledged his commitment to mobilizing support in the Senate once the President presents a clear, actionable plan.
A Call to Leadership
In closing, Konneh stressed that ultimate responsibility lies with the President.
“It is the Commander-in-Chief who must take charge of the LDEA. The time to act is now. Liberia needs a clear plan, a solid team, and the political will to defeat this menace.”
The Senator’s remarks come amid growing public concern over rising drug abuse, particularly the spread of the synthetic drug kush, which has devastated many Liberian communities.
