Monrovia, Liberia — In a press statement reflecting on Liberia’s 178-year history, on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at the party’s headquarters, the Alternative National Congress Youth League has highlighted a stark contrast between the nation’s potential for progress and the current government’s alleged neglect and unfulfilled promises.
The youth league expresses deep concern over the plight of young Liberians, who are facing widespread unemployment and economic hardship, and criticizes the government’s sarcastic responses to peaceful protests advocating for better living conditions.
The ANC Youth League reflects on July 17, when a group known as Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND) emerged to confront these pressing challenges, showcasing the bravery of citizens amidst economic struggles.
The youth league condemns what it describes as the government’s tendency to prioritize indulgent expenditures, such as lavish spending on food and hiring foreign lobbyists, instead of addressing the basic needs of the populace.
The statement also underscores the urgent need for a change in governmental priorities to empower disadvantaged youth and enhance national institutions. The youth league characterizes the ongoing crisis as an emergency, emphasizing that the loss of a generation cannot be ignored.
Key findings from the Liberia Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative report, highlighted by the ANC Youth League in its press conference, revealed a notable lack of transparency and accountability from major mining companies.
These failures, they believe have contributed to the economic poverty experienced by many, despite Liberia’s rich natural resources. The youth league demands full publication of all mining contracts and strict enforcement of environmental regulations, accusing the leadership of President Boakai of systemic theft from the nation’s wealth.
Furthermore, the league unequivocally rejects the notion of selling significant national resources, such as the Wologiisi Mountain, and criticizes President Boakai’s luxurious lifestyle amidst the dire need for schools and hospitals in regions like Lofa County.
The statement also critiques a controversial 25-year traffic management concession, framing it as an alarming transfer of sovereignty that undermines public duty by outsourcing essential law enforcement functions to private entities.
The youth league calls for the immediate cancellation of this concession, asserting that the enforcement of laws should remain a state function.
The overall tone of the ANC Youth League’s statement underscores a strong demand for government accountability, transparency, and a renewed focus on the people’s needs over personal comfort and profit.
The Alternative National Congress Youth League urges the government to act decisively to address these critical issues for the future of Liberia’s youth.
