President Joseph Nyuma Boakai says Liberia is steadily advancing toward becoming one of the leading countries in the region, as he used a nationwide radio interview to outline his administration’s priorities, defend its anti-corruption stance, and reaffirm his focus on governance rather than electoral politics.
Speaking during a live broadcast on the ELBC Super Morning Show, President Boakai said his attention remains firmly on delivering results now—not on future elections.
“The president’s job I have is now. I don’t worry about 2029,”
he said, underscoring his administration’s emphasis on immediate national recovery.
The President asserted that Liberia’s trajectory is changing, citing progress in governance reform, infrastructure planning, and international engagement.
“Liberia is on the move to be the best country in the region,”
he said, describing a vision anchored in productivity, accountability, and long-term development.
Anti-Corruption and Rule of Law
Addressing corruption concerns, President Boakai rejected what he termed “trial by accusation,” stressing the importance of due process and institutional independence. He emphasized that allegations alone do not amount to guilt.
“When someone accuses you of corruption, it doesn’t mean you are corrupt,”
he spoke. “We are giving the LACC and every institution the chance to investigate before we prosecute anyone.”
According to the President, respect for the rule of law is essential not only for justice but also for maintaining Liberia’s credibility with international partners. He noted that institutions such as the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) evaluate countries based on governance and transparency benchmarks.
“Those institutions grade us on these things,” Boakai said. “Let us give the investigators time.”
Infrastructure as a Development Pillar
On infrastructure development, President Boakai said roads, electricity, and health services remain top investment priorities, particularly under potential MCC funding. He described basic infrastructure as the foundation for economic growth and national stability.
“Roads, health, and electricity—we will invest in the MCC funds in these,”
he stated.
The President placed particular emphasis on road construction, describing it as central to national development.
“Road #1, Road #2, Road #3—because without a road, you can’t run a country,”
he said, highlighting the importance of connectivity.
He also criticized what he described as low-impact development approaches, urging a shift toward more ambitious public service delivery.
“I will not dedicate a hand pump,” he said. “We should be talking about a water tower at our age.”
Jobs, Youth, and Economic Transformation
On job creation, President Boakai said economic transformation requires patience and proper structuring, especially within the natural resource sector. He stressed the need for value addition within Liberia rather than exporting raw materials.
“We want you to get iron ore here and produce it here,”
he said, noting that concession negotiations and legislative approval processes take time.
“Job creation is about time.”
The President also revealed plans aimed at youth development and sports, announcing his intention to establish a football academy in Bong County as part of broader efforts to invest in young people.
“I’m going to build a football academy in Bong County,”
he said, describing sports as a tool for empowerment and national unity.
Leadership Philosophy
Throughout the interview, President Boakai reiterated his administration’s commitment to fighting corruption while strengthening, rather than undermining—state institutions.
“We’re here to fight corruption,” he said, “but we must do it lawfully and sustainably.”
He framed his leadership as mission-driven rather than power-driven.
“I didn’t just come to become president,” Boakai said. “I came to rescue our country.”
Broadcast nationwide on ELBC, the interview allowed citizens across Liberia to hear the President directly address governance, development, and national direction.
The platform enabled him to clarify policies, manage public expectations, and articulate a long-term vision centered on infrastructure, integrity, and institutional strength.
As Liberia continues to navigate economic and governance challenges, President Boakai’s remarks signal a leadership posture focused on rebuilding state capacity and laying the foundation for sustained national progress.
