President Joseph Boakai delivered a stirring address on Liberia’s 177th Independence Day.
He reflected on the country’s history of hardship and resilience, and articulated a vision of hope and progress for the future.
Speaking at the Centennial Memorial Pavilion in Monrovia, President Boakai highlighted the significance of this momentous occasion.
Esteemed guests, including Ghana’s President Nana Dankwa Akufo-Addo, representatives from various foreign governments, and numerous dignitaries, joined Liberians in commemorating the day.
President Boakai began by paying homage to Liberia’s founding fathers and democracy champions.
He acknowledged their immense sacrifices and efforts in establishing a nation founded on freedom, liberty, and justice.
“Through their sweat, tears, and blood, we inherited a culture of democracy that is now celebrated globally,” he stated.
However, he also confronted the harsh realities that many Liberians still face today. “Despite our independence, many of our fellow citizens continue to suffer from hunger, homelessness, illness, poverty, and injustice,” Boakai said, emphasizing that true freedom remains elusive for many.
President Boakai expressed his profound gratitude for the opportunity to lead the nation during such a critical juncture.
He called on all Liberians to unite and embrace the true values of freedom, urging collective action to create opportunities for every citizen to lead a dignified life.
He highlighted Liberia’s vast potential and the pressing need for the current generation to drive progress.
“Our nation stands at a crossroads,” he declared. “We must choose whether to remain anchored in the past or to chart a new course towards a brighter future.”
The President’s address was a powerful call to action, urging citizens to consider the long-term impacts of their decisions.
He emphasized this year’s independence theme, “Building a New Liberia for All Liberians,” as a rallying cry for unity and collective effort.
“We must break the chains of the past and forge new pathways to success,” Boakai proclaimed. “This is a call to every Liberian, regardless of background or affiliation, to come together and work towards the common goal of national prosperity.”
Boakai’s vision for Liberia includes significant initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure. “Our vision for a new Liberia is one where every child has access to quality education, every citizen receives adequate healthcare, and our infrastructure supports our economic ambitions,” he stated.
“These are not mere dreams but achievable goals that require our collective effort and determination.”
The President did not shy away from addressing the deep-rooted structural inequalities that have plagued Liberia for decades.
He acknowledged the economic disparities that have fueled social tensions and conflicts.
“The structure of our economy has led to significant inequality, which has fueled social tensions and conflicts.
Furthermore, a small group of people have exploited the government for their personal gain,” Boakai noted.
As the celebrations continued, President Boakai reiterated the necessity of unity and inclusivity. “As we gather in this grand hall built to celebrate one hundred years of our existence, we must strive to show a unified vision and a strong commitment to building a new Liberia that includes all Liberians, regardless of ethnic group, religion, or circumstances,” he urged.
In closing, President Boakai’s address encapsulated the spirit of the occasion, emphasizing the potential for positive change and the enduring legacy that this generation can shape for future generations.
“As we celebrate our independence, let us remember that our actions today will determine the legacy we leave for future generations,” he said. “Let us strive to leave behind a Liberia that our children and grandchildren will be proud of.”
President Boakai’s Independence Day speech was a powerful call for unity, progress, and inclusivity.
His words aimed to inspire all Liberians to come together and build a nation that reflects the true values of freedom, democracy, and opportunity for all.
The message was clear: Liberia’s future is bright, and it lies in the hands of its united people.
“Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build Liberia,” President Boakai concluded, encapsulating the spirit of hope and determination that characterized his address.
