Respected rights lawyer and coalition partner of the ruling Unity Party Alliance, Tiawon Saye Gongloe, has voiced his concerns over the Boakai administration’s missteps and shortcomings, despite acknowledging its positive accomplishments.
Gongloe, who actively supported Boakai’s presidential bid, is now taking the administration to task on a range of issues, including its failure to adhere to the rule of law, lack of seriousness in fighting corruption, and neglect of traditional allies like the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany.
While lauding the administration’s efforts in implementing the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and improving the country’s infrastructure and environmental conditions, Gongloe pointed out several areas of concern in a statement issued Friday September 6.
Notably, he highlighted the administration’s disregard for the Executive Law of Liberia, which mandates the inclusion of cabinet ministers from each county. Gongloe also expressed dismay over the dismissals of government employees for criticizing the president, which he says undermines the constitutional right to freedom of speech.
The lawyer further criticized the government’s handling of public protests, the use of the military during the arrival of former President George Weah, and the failure to develop a friendly posture towards Weah, which he sees as a missed opportunity for national unity.
Gongloe also raised concerns about the significant salary disparities between high-ranking officials and civil servants, the continued burden of graduation fees on parents.
Urging the Boakai administration to address these issues, Gongloe stressed the importance of a leadership that is inclusive, respects the rule of law, and prioritizes the interests of the Liberian people above all else.
As a political leader who supported Boakai’s election, Gongloe feels a moral obligation to provide honest feedback, emphasizing that “what was wrong yesterday is wrong today.”
