-Gives Boakai Ultimatum
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
MONROVIA– The ruling Unity Party has called for the immediate conclusion of investigations into the recent US$19.7 million drug seizure at Roberts International Airport (RIA), while urging President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. to reshuffle members of his Cabinet whom it says are failing to deliver.
Speaking at a press conference in Monrovia, Unity Party National Chairman Luther Tarpe said the Boakai administration remains committed to transparency, accountability, and improving the lives of Liberians despite ongoing national challenges.
Addressing the recent drug bust, Tarpe described the seizure as evidence that the government’s anti-drug campaign is producing results. He credited the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), the Liberia Airport Authority, the Joint Security, and international partners for intercepting the shipment.
“The successful seizure demonstrates that our security institutions are becoming more vigilant, coordinated, and effective,” Tarpe said. “This interception is evidence that our systems are working.”
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that everyone linked to the case is investigated and prosecuted, regardless of political affiliation or social status.
“There will be no sacred cows,” he declared. “Anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.”
While praising the security agencies for the seizure, the Unity Party expressed concern over the pace of the investigation, urging authorities to speed up the process to maintain public confidence.
“The Liberian people demand answers now, not later,” Tarpe said. “This investigation has been lingering for far too long. Anyone whose hand is caught in the cookie jar must face the weight of the law.”
The party also highlighted what it described as progress under the Boakai administration in combating drug trafficking, saying the government’s crackdown has reduced the spread of drug dens and strengthened cooperation among national security institutions.
On the economy, Tarpe commended the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning for commencing salary payments to civil servants on July 2, saying the move reflects improved fiscal discipline and responsible public financial management.
According to him, timely salary payments increase household income, stimulate business activities, and strengthen confidence in government.
The Unity Party further praised the government’s management of the petroleum sector, noting that Liberia has maintained a stable supply of fuel despite global market disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Tarpe said the administration will continue monitoring international developments while implementing measures to keep fuel supplies stable and protect consumers from unnecessary price increases.
The ruling party also applauded President Boakai for breaking ground on the construction of the proposed four-lane highway from the Gabriel Tucker Bridge through the St. Paul Bridge to Bo Waterside.
According to the party, the road project will reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, lower transportation costs, facilitate trade, and attract investment.
In a notable development, the Unity Party publicly called on President Boakai to reorganize his administration by replacing underperforming officials.
“As we approach the midpoint of this administration, we believe a Cabinet reshuffle is long overdue,” Tarpe said. “There are ministers and directors who are not performing. We will submit our recommendations to the President because the nation cannot afford poor service delivery.”
He concluded by reaffirming the Unity Party’s support for the Boakai administration while pledging that the party would continue to recognize government achievements and speak out whenever improvements are needed.
