The Liberian People’s Party (LPP) has issued a sharp response to the Unity Party’s (UP) recent claims of achievements within its first 100 days in power.
During a press conference held at LPP Headquarters in Congo Town, Montserrado County, the party outlined major concerns, and recommendations, if taken, will lead to a better Liberia.
The LPP highlighted several critical issues noting that contrary to President Boakai’s promise, eight counties lack representation in the cabinet, with accusations of favoritism towards Lofa County.
The in its observation critzised the Boakai-led government of violations of Public Financial Management Law.
“The administration allegedly misappropriated funds and concealed sources of significant expenditures, raising concerns about transparency and accountability”. The party stated.
The political movement which endorsed Boakai’s presidency believes the appointing individuals with questionable ethics to key positions undermines the integrity of the government.
During President Boakai 100-days of office , LPP says it noted that separation of powers was undermined, pointing out alleged legislature’s encroachment on the financial management powers of the Executive Branch which violates constitutional principles.
According to the Party, there were Wasteful Spending during the first 100 days, as it narrates the use of private jets and luxurious vehicles by government officials which they believe sends a negative signal about the state of the Liberian economy.
The Liberian People’s Party underscored that President Boakai’s absence from significant regional and continental meetings, such as ECOWAS and the African Union, weakens Liberia’s diplomatic ties and regional security.
In its press statement, the allocation of only 1% of the national budget to agriculture is insufficient to address food security and rural development contrary to the ARREST Agenda .
“Failure by government officials, including the President and Vice President, to declare and publish their assets undermines anti-corruption efforts” said LPP.
However, the Liberian People’s Party (LPP) acknowledged notable achievements by the Boakai/Koung administration, naming the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court as a significant step towards ending the culture of impunity and promoting accountability.
While it critzised the Boakai’s 100-day deliverables, LPP said infrastructure efforts were made as she highlighted the rehabilitation of challenging roads in rural areas, particularly in Lofa and Southeastern Liberia.
The Party underscored positive movements by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Environmental
Liberian People’s Party at the same profered recommendations to include the allocation of at least 10% of the national budget to agriculture, establishment of diagnostic centers, transparency in infrastructure reporting by providing detailed progress reports with clear timelines for all projects.
LPP recommends that comprehensive education reform should be considered by implementing systemic changes to enhance the quality of education, including increased funding and resources.
The party recommends operationalization of the War and Economic Crimes Court by ensuring swift and effective prosecution of cases as well as redirecting funds to establish maintenance workstations in all counties for year-round road maintenance.
Other recommendations the party proffered are sustainable development initiatives through fostering a free enterprise system to attract foreign investment, ending impunity and corruption.
LPP highlighted modernizing key sectors by introducing systematic approaches across health, agriculture, sanitation, and education to improve service quality and accessibility.
Respect for former leaders is part of the recommendation proffered by the party indicating that the UP government should handle former leaders with dignity and provide them with maximum security to ensure national unity and cohesion.
Protection Agency, Water and Sewer Corporation, and the Liberia Revenue Authority.
It can be recalled the LPP endorsed the Unity Party in the run-off election on October 26, 2023, believing UP could be the better choice for governing Liberia in alignment with LPP’s Ten Points Agenda.
Despite this endorsement, the LPP in its press statement indicated that it did not form an alliance or political agreement with the UP, but purely acted in the national interest.
The party emphasized Its moral duty to hold the UP accountable for its performance, especially considering the sacrifices made, including the loss of four LPP partisans during the campaign.