Liberian-American-based activist Norris Johnson has called on Liberians to move beyond political loyalty and nostalgia, urging citizens to judge governments based on performance, accountability and measurable results.
In what is believed to be a patriotic public statement, Johnson questioned what he described as changing political positions among some Liberians who strongly criticized former President George Weah ahead of the 2023 General Elections but now argue that Weah was a better leader than President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
Johnson asked, “What changed?”, questioning whether previous criticisms of the Weah administration were based on governance and performance or political allegiance.
He stressed, however, that his argument should not be interpreted as a defense of President Boakai, saying the current administration must be held accountable for its decisions, promises, performance and failures.
According to Johnson, accountability must be applied consistently regardless of which political party or individual is in power.
He urged Liberians to demand transparency, economic growth, job creation, improved healthcare, quality education, infrastructure development and stronger national institutions from every administration.
Johnson said Liberia’s problems extend beyond the political rivalry between former President Weah and President Boakai, or between the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) and the Unity Party (UP).
He challenged citizens to ask what governments have delivered, what they have failed to accomplish and what measurable progress ordinary Liberians can see.
Johnson also cautioned against what he called “political nostalgia, blame, and personality worship,” arguing that Liberia cannot build a better future by constantly romanticizing its political past.
He maintained that if the Boakai administration is failing, it should be held accountable, while successful policies should receive credit. Likewise, ideas from former leaders should be evaluated objectively rather than accepted or rejected based on political loyalty.
“Liberia belongs to all of us,” Johnson declared, emphasizing that citizens’ ultimate loyalty should be to the Republic of Liberia and future generations.
He concluded by urging Liberians to “demand better—regardless of who occupies the position.”
