Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has expressed deep concern over the ongoing disturbances and confusion plaguing the nation, characterizing them as self-inflicted wounds that exacerbate Liberia’s existing poverty. Speaking at her residence in Monrovia, Madam Sirleaf stressed the urgent need for stability and cooperation, particularly highlighting the recent standoff between the Liberian National Police and commercial motorcyclists as a detrimental example of this disruptive trend. She emphasized that such conflicts only serve to hinder the progress of the nation and undermine the efforts of President Joseph N. Boakai’s administration.
Madam Sirleaf underscored the importance of collective responsibility in fostering a peaceful and conducive environment for national development. She argued that all stakeholders, including government officials, branches of government, civil society organizations, and citizens, must play their respective roles in upholding order and tranquility. She lamented the current state of affairs where individual interests appear to take precedence over the common good, warning that such fragmentation jeopardizes the hard-won gains Liberia has made in escaping poverty and establishing itself as a beacon of democratic transition in the region. She reminded Liberians that the country’s success hinges on the collaborative efforts of all its citizens, working together towards a shared vision of prosperity.
Addressing the specific issue of the police-motorcyclist clashes, Madam Sirleaf called for an immediate resolution, emphasizing the need for dialogue and understanding to prevent further escalation. She reminded the nation of the consensus reached upon President Boakai’s inauguration, where it was agreed that he be given ample time to implement his agenda without undue interference. The current disturbances, she argued, represent a breach of this understanding and a disservice to the nation’s aspirations for growth and development.
Reflecting on Liberia’s progress, Madam Sirleaf expressed pride in the country’s achievement of two successful political transitions, a feat that distinguishes it among its peers. The presence of two former heads of state residing peacefully within the country alongside the incumbent president, she noted, is a testament to Liberia’s democratic maturity. However, she expressed bewilderment at the current wave of unrest, questioning why such self-sabotaging behavior persists in a nation striving to overcome poverty. She lamented what she perceived as a lack of commitment to hard work and responsibility among some Liberians, urging a greater appreciation for the nation’s potential and the need for collective effort to realize it.
Madam Sirleaf further emphasized the importance of speaking out against wrongdoing and holding individuals accountable for their actions. While advocating for constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts, she condemned silence in the face of injustice. She challenged Liberians to read her recent statement, which she believes sheds light on the underlying issues plaguing the nation, emphasizing that her critique is directed not at any specific branch of government but at harmful practices that impede national progress.
Finally, Madam Sirleaf addressed the recent controversial remarks made by Nimba County senatorial candidate Samuel Kogar, who discouraged citizens from voting for women candidates in the upcoming by-election. She condemned Kogar’s statements as shameful and regressive, asserting that such views belong in the archives of history. She questioned how Kogar could reconcile his stance with his hopes for his own daughter and wife, urging him to reconsider his position and embrace the evolving role of women in society. Madam Sirleaf reiterated that individuals who espouse such outdated views are out of touch with contemporary realities and risk being left behind as the world progresses.
