A prominent Liberian critic on bad governance Norris Johnson, currently residing in the United States, has issued a passionate critique of what he describes as Liberia’s increasing reliance on foreign assistance. In a recent statement titled “Just Curious: Is Liberia a Hand-out County Now?”, Johnson raises pointed concerns over Liberia’s sovereignty, self-reliance, and long-term development direction.
His comments come in the wake of China’s recent pledge to assist in the reconstruction of the Liberian Capitol building—an offer Johnson finds deeply troubling.
“Must we always seek external assistance for our national development efforts?” he writes. “It is disheartening that, having destroyed our own Capitol building, we now turn to China for help in reconstructing it.”
Johnson argues that Liberia has become overly dependent on foreign aid, suggesting that this dependence is symptomatic of poor national resource management and a lack of self-discipline in governance.
He proposed several bold reforms aimed at reshaping Liberia’s economic and political landscape, including a call to:
Close national borders to raw material exports unless value is added within the country. He advocates for establishing local factories to create jobs and build a sustainable economy, even if such a policy would jeopardize international aid eligibility, such as under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).
Review existing concession agreements to ensure Liberia’s resources are processed locally before export.
Promote agricultural self-sufficiency, recalling a time when counties like Lofa produced much of the nation’s food. He criticized the current trend of rural residents traveling to urban centers to purchase imported rice—a situation he deems unsustainable.
“Liberia cannot continue importing nearly all its goods and commodities. We must grow what we eat—both in our backyards and on our farms,” Johnson stressed.
On governance, Johnson called for a reduction in the size of the Liberian Senate, suggesting that each of the 15 counties be represented by only one senator to cut costs and improve efficiency.
He also urged the government to create an enabling environment for skilled Liberians in the diaspora to return home and contribute meaningfully to national rebuilding.
Regarding infrastructure, he emphasized the importance of supporting the Ministry of Public Works, insisting that major road construction across the country should not exceed a two-year timeframe.
Throughout his statement, Johnson lamented what he sees as national complacency and a lack of urgency in addressing Liberia’s development challenges.
“Ultimately, we must decide when to stop relying on handouts before taking responsibility for our national development. It is time to cultivate our land, rebuild our nation, and move forward with purpose and dignity,” he concluded.
Johnson, known for his outspoken stance on issues of governance and national pride, has long called for reforms that promote self-sufficiency, accountability, and economic transformation in Liberia. His latest comments are likely to spark renewed public debate on Liberia’s development model and the role of foreign partners in shaping the country’s future.
