Liberia stands at a critical juncture in its democratic journey. The nation’s hard-won peace and democratic gains are under threat due to systemic governance failures, rampant corruption, and the erosion of the rule of law. George S. Tengbeh, a prominent labor rights advocate and governance reformist, warns that ignoring these red flags could jeopardize the country’s future. This article delves into the current governance challenges in Liberia, highlighting the urgent need for reforms to safeguard the nation’s democratic trajectory.
The Erosion of the Rule of Law
The rule of law is the bedrock of any functioning democracy. In Liberia, however, this foundation is crumbling. The judiciary, constitutionally mandated to be independent, is plagued by corruption, backlogs, and inadequate funding, especially in rural areas. Critics argue that judicial outcomes often appear predetermined, with the executive branch exerting undue influence over legal proceedings.
However, it is crucial, now more than ever, for the Liberian people to recognize the mounting red flags in the country’s political landscape and intensify their push for systemic reforms. If Liberia is to witness a peaceful, transparent, and democratic outcome in the 2029 general elections, early civic vigilance and active engagement are indispensable. The signs of democratic backsliding are not only visible, they are alarming. Citizens, civil society actors, and democratic institutions must not wait until another electoral cycle unfolds under questionable circumstances to raise their voices. By then, it could be too late.
Liberia’s current political climate is deeply concerning. The executive branch of government appears to exercise undue influence and control over the other arms of government, the legislature, the judiciary, and even the national security apparatus. This centralized concentration of power undermines the principle of checks and balances, which is foundational to any functioning democracy.
In practice, it means that laws passed by the legislature may not reflect the will of the people but rather the interests of the executive. Court rulings may increasingly become political tools rather than instruments of impartial justice. Security forces may act not in service of the nation but in protection of the regime.
This lopsided power dynamic places the credibility of future elections in jeopardy. If the current trend persists, the 2029 elections may be manipulated through state-sponsored voter suppression, the misuse of public funds to influence electoral outcomes, biased electoral commissions, and compromised judicial processes. In such a scenario, the opposition will find itself not only out-resourced but also legally paralyzed.
Even if opposition parties or candidates choose to challenge electoral fraud through legal channels, the current perception, and in many cases, reality, of a compromised judiciary offers them little to no recourse. A ruling in favor of the opposition would be unlikely if the Supreme Court is seen as beholden to the very administration whose actions are being contested.
A glaring example of this erosion is the recent political maneuvering in the House of Representatives. A prominent legal expert observed, “The mistakes by this government by going against the rule of law make the former president look like a savior and a better fit for the presidency, but that does not negate the fact that the president is not doing anything for the good of the country.” Such actions not only undermine the judiciary’s credibility but also set a dangerous precedent for future governance.
History provides sobering lessons. Liberians have experienced the devastating consequences of power monopolization, from civil war to political repression. These lessons should not be forgotten. Citizens must learn to connect the dots between unchecked executive power and the erosion of their rights and freedoms. It is in this context that voices like that of George S. Tengbeh are critical, calling for resistance, reform, and the defense of democratic norms.
The path to a credible 2029 election begins now, with bold civic engagement, the strengthening of civil society watchdogs, free media, electoral transparency, and judicial independence. International partners and pro-democracy allies must also be lobbied to monitor and support reforms. Without these systemic safeguards, elections in 2029 risk being nothing more than a ceremonial rubber stamp of a predetermined outcome.
Corruption: A Persistent Plague
Corruption remains a significant impediment to Liberia’s development. The 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Liberia among the most corrupt nations globally, with scores well below the regional average for Sub-Saharan Africa. This pervasive corruption erodes public trust in institutions and diverts resources away from essential public services.
The suspension of over 450 government officials for failing to declare their assets underscores the depth of the problem. While such actions are steps in the right direction, they also highlight the systemic nature of corruption within the government. Moreover, the suspension of the Central Bank Governor following an audit revealing unauthorized spending exceeding $80 million further emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive anti-corruption measures.
Governance Failures and Public Discontent
The Liberian government’s failure to address basic public service needs has led to widespread public discontent. Hospitals lack beds and medical supplies, schools are without chairs, and healthcare providers operate under dire conditions. Despite these challenges, the executive branch has been accused of distributing significant funds to the House of Representatives under the guise of removing a speaker. Such actions raise questions about the government’s priorities and commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
The public’s frustration has manifested in protests and civil unrest. In December 2024, anti-government demonstrations escalated, leading to the burning of the parliament building. These events underscore the urgent need for the government to address the root causes of public dissatisfaction and restore trust in its institutions.
The Need for Institutional Reforms
To avert a potential crisis, Liberia must undertake comprehensive institutional reforms. Strengthening the independence of the judiciary is paramount. This includes ensuring adequate funding, reducing case backlogs, and insulating the judiciary from political interference. Furthermore, anti-corruption agencies must be empowered with the necessary resources and autonomy to investigate and prosecute corruption cases effectively.
The establishment of a war crimes court, as approved by the Liberian Senate, is a significant step towards addressing past injustices and promoting accountability. However, for such initiatives to be successful, they must be implemented transparently and with the full support of the government and civil society.
Liberia’s democratic future hinges on its ability to confront and address the red flags currently threatening its governance structures. As George S. Tengbeh aptly warns, “There is no 2029 if the red flags raised now and seen by Liberians are not dealt with.” The government must prioritize the rule of law, combat corruption, and implement meaningful reforms to restore public trust and ensure the nation’s stability and prosperity.
About the Author:
George S. Tengbeh is a leading voice on labor policy and occupational safety in Liberia. He is the founder of the Liberia Labor and Governance Alliance (LILGA) and contributes regularly to the Oracle News Daily on matters of labor justice, governance reform, and workers’ rights
Email: gstengbeh@gmail.com
