On January 22, 2024, Joseph Boakai was inaugurated as President of Liberia, pledging to tackle corruption, revive the faltering economy, and address the escalating cost of living faced by the nation of 5.5 million people.
In his inaugural address, Boakai emphasized a commitment to democracy and rule of law, stating, “I come with rekindled hope. I have come to rekindle your Hope. Let us restore the years the locusts have eaten.”
One year into his presidency, Boakai’s record has drawn mixed reactions from the public, analysts, and political stakeholders.
While he has taken meaningful steps toward economic recovery, his administration has faced significant backlash regarding governance, rule of law, and allegations of corruption.
Economy (Score: 8/10)
During his first year, Boakai managed to increase the national GDP growth rate from 4.6% to an estimated 5.1% by 2024, with projections indicating a further increase to 5.6% this year.
He has attracted substantial investment in the mining and energy sectors from American and Chinese companies. A likely landmark deals with steel giant ArcelorMittal and HPX position Liberia to potentially become Africa’s largest iron ore producer, challenging South Africa’s long-held status.
The administration has qualified for United States grant under the Millennium Challenge Corporation compact funding. Liberia could benefit an estimated $500 million at the end of ongoing negotiate to finance infrastructure and other socio-economic development projects.
The Liberia Telecommunications authority is accelerating government’s digital transformation project, targeting to log about 4 million people into the digital economy to ease transactions, modernized payment system.
Besides Starlink, LTA working with Mobile Network Operator is expected to launch the Advanced 5G technology early this year, backing the nation’s efforts to modernize its $3 billion economy and drive digital innovation
Despite these positive signs, inflation remains a concern, and the cost of living continues to rise, prompting widespread public discontent. Central Bank of Liberia is taking steps to counter inflation risks and support economic growth.
Rule of Law and Governance (Score: 3/10)
Boakai’s administration has faced serious criticism regarding its commitment to the rule of law. The President’s controversial suspension of the Chairperson of the National Elections Commission, removal of tenured office holders, endorsement of the unconstitutional removal of the Speaker of the House, disregard for Supreme Court opinions, and law enforcement’s failure to adhere to court orders have raised urgent questions about governance.
Allegations of security forces torturing crime suspects and the forced removal of foreign citizens without proper legal proceedings have further marred the government’s reputation.
Corruption (Score: 5/10)
When the 80-year-old Joseph Boakai became president a year ago, he vowed to fight corruption with ‘brutality.’ He got off to a strong start ordering the audit of key government institutions, assemble assets recovery taskforce and issued several indictment against past administration officials.
Yet his initial stance on fighting corruption has been met with skepticism. Despite campaigned promises for ethical governance, substantive actions against corruption have been minimal. Assets recovery efforts stalled.
While some officials from the previous Weah administration were indicted, ongoing challenges regarding the prosecution of Boakai’s own administration officials raise concerns. The anti-corruption commission has adopted a snail-pace approach to handling corruption related cases. Some high-ranking individuals are reinforcing businesses and other financial assets while holding public office, prompting accusations of conflict of interest.
Health and Education (Score: 4/10)
The healthcare sector has faced ongoing difficulties including service delivery as state-run universities shut for nearly a year while health workers report poor working conditions. These sectors did record any groundbreaking initiatives for the period under review indicating a need for urgent reform and improved service delivery.
Agriculture (Score: 6/10)
Highlighted significantly in Boakai’s agenda, agricultural initiatives take a seat on the frontline as the focus lays on strengthening fundamentals that will enhance macroeconomic growth and foreign investment.
Recognizing its vital role in food security and economic stability, the administration adopted the National Agriculture Plan, cultivating over 14,000 hectors for food and cash crops production and proving support to farmers. However, the high cost of locally produced food on the domestic market shows there is Signiant room for improvement and investment targeting technology and emery and road infrastructure.
National Security (Score: 2/10)
The security situation has raised alarm bells, with reports of police brutality against citizens, unjustified killing of citizens, excessive security checkpoints – often a tool of harassment and extortion, and tensions between law enforcement and opposition supporters. Incidents of violence, including arson attacks on government properties, reflect a need for greater investment in maintaining peace and order within the country.
Foreign Relations (Score: 7/10)
On the positive front, Boakai has made notable strides in foreign relations, enhancing ties with neighboring countries and other African states. His diplomatic efforts have broadened Liberia’s international partnerships, setting a foundation for potential collaboration on various socio-economic fronts.
Infrastructure and Basic Services (Score: 4/10)
Despite some progress, Liberia continues to grapple with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to basic services such as water and electricity. These persistent challenges hinder economic development and daily life for many Liberians, necessitating a focused investment strategy.
Overall, President Joseph Boakai’s first year in office reflects a mix of achievements and challenges.
While advancing economic indicators and foreign relations are commendable, significant shortcomings in governance, the rule of law, and public services remain crucial issues to be addressed in order to fulfill his initial promises of a new democratic dispensation in Liberia.
Summary Scores:
– Economy: 8/10
– Rule of Law and Governance: 3/10
– Corruption: 5/10
– Health & Education: 4/10
– Agriculture: 6/10
– National Security: 2/10
– Foreign Relations: 7/10
– Infrastructure and Basic Services: 4/10.