Recent news suggesting that the government of Liberia has entered a partnership with Russia to establish the first-ever Russian Embassy in Liberia has led the former ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) to feel optimistic about predictions during the 2023 elections.
During a press conference held in Monrovia, CDC Secretary General Jefferson Koijee described the reported decision as a “spit in the face” of Liberia’s long-standing ally, the United States.
The CDC Secretary-General stressed the repercussions of Russia’s reported welcoming decision to have an embassy in Liberia.
Koijee believes the alleged decision by the Liberian government contravenes the historic tie that Liberia and America have had for a protracted period, dating back to the formation of Liberia. Liberia’s partnership with the U.S. has been the foundation of our foreign relations.
“This decision jeopardizes our international alliances and sends the wrong message to our most steadfast ally,” Koijee said.
Jefferson Koijee, at the same time, iterated that the CDC is not surprised about the government’s move as they had earlier said the same discussions were being held long during the election, which was carried out in various outlets, including the VOA.
“We want to remind the Liberian people that this party revealed how Mr. Boakai was actively doing business with the Russians, but he and his ‘risky mission’ denied it,” Koijee said in his widely aired interview.
The announcement has sparked debate among Liberian political figures and analysts, with some viewing it as a step toward diversifying Liberia’s diplomatic relations. However, CDC officials see the move as part of a concerning trend that has been building for some time. According to Koijee, even recent statements by Liberian Independence Day orator Robtel Pailey suggested anti-American sentiments.
Pailey, a scholar and public intellectual, was invited to speak on Liberia’s Independence Day, where she delivered remarks that some perceived as critical of American influence in Liberia. CDC officials argue that her statements reflect a growing disregard within the government for the historic alliance with the United States. “The choice of such a figure as the Independence Day orator reflects an intention to denigrate our alliance with America; it was all but a premeditated ploy by the Boakai administration,” Koijee said.
CDC members contend that inviting Russia could increase competition for influence in Liberia, which has traditionally aligned with U.S. interests in Africa. The move comes amid a time of global tension, with Russia seeking to expand its influence in the continent through various partnerships. CDC has urged the Boakai administration to weigh the broader consequences of closer ties with Russia vis-à-vis aligning with our traditional allies the United States.
“Mr. Boakai cannot gamble with an entire nation; even if you’re angry with the American people, you don’t have to disrespect them in this manner,” the CDC Chief Scribe maintained.
Political observers have pointed out that Liberia’s foreign policy traditionally mirrors the U.S. stance, often prioritizing alignment with American geopolitical interests. Koijee’s statement reflects a deep-seated concern that this decision signals a potential shift in the country’s foreign policy.
