Monrovia, Liberia — Norris Johnson, an American-based Liberian activist, has issued a public statement urging President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and his administration to take decisive action on Liberia’s pressing social and economic challenges.
In a message addressed to Liberians over the weekend, Johnson highlighted recent population data, noting that Liberia’s population in early 2026 is projected to be between 5.79 million and 5.91 million, growing at an annual rate of 2.73%. The country has a median age of 19 years, with approximately 55% of the population residing in urban areas.
“Roughly 51% to 60% of our citizens live below the national poverty line, facing high levels of food insecurity and extreme poverty, particularly in rural communities,” Johnson said. “While some indicators suggest poverty rates have declined recently, more than half of our population continues to endure significant economic hardship, with around 30% surviving on less than $2.15 per day.”
Johnson questioned the government’s use of readily available data in policymaking, emphasizing that the nation’s leaders must act decisively to combat unemployment and improve living conditions. “Whatever measures have been taken so far are clearly insufficient,” he said.
In addition to economic concerns, Johnson raised questions about the recent appointment of Cllr. Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah as Minister of Youth and Sports.
During a recent episode of the television program Spoon Talk, panelist Paul Kennedy revealed that Kruah is the biological daughter of Liberia’s current Labor Minister, Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah. Johnson expressed concern over potential conflicts of interest and a lack of diversity in key ministerial positions.
“It is untenable to have 16 to 20 key ministerial and agencies positions filled while a father and daughter both serve as ministers in a country with the highest unemployment rates in the region,” Johnson said.
He urged President Boakai to consider asking one of the two ministers to step down, suggesting that the father, Cllr. Kruah, should resign. He also called on Liberian senators to review Kruah’s appointment to ensure fair opportunities for others to serve the nation.
Johnson’s statement underscores growing calls for transparency, equity, and effective governance as Liberia confronts persistent socio-economic challenges.
Minutes after activist Johnson’s statement, the Liberian senate postponed the confirmation hearing of madam Kruah to an unknown date.
