The Liberian government has dismissed claims that a recently enacted law under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai was designed to target former President George Weah or members of his administration.
At the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing in Monrovia on Tuesday, Deputy Minister for Information Daniel Sando described the allegations as “unfounded and misleading,” stressing that the measure was not politically motivated.
“The government is not in any way hurting or targeting anybody, including officials of past governments through any law enacted by the President,” Sando said. He emphasized that the Boakai administration remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that legislative actions serve national development and accountability.
Sando underscored that the government’s approach is rooted in institutional reform and transparency, not retaliation. He cautioned media outlets against publishing reports without verified evidence, urging journalists to adhere to professional standards of accuracy and balance.
“The role of the media is critical in strengthening democracy,” he noted. “But misinformation has the potential to undermine public trust and national unity.”
The deputy minister reiterated the administration’s call for responsible journalism, warning that sensational or unsubstantiated claims could erode confidence in governance. He encouraged reporters to engage with official sources and fact check before publication.
The clarification comes amid heightened political debate over accountability measures introduced by the Boakai government. While critics have suggested the new law could be used to investigate or penalize former officials, the administration insists its focus is on strengthening institutions and ensuring compliance with national statutes.
The draft measure would alter statutes of limitation and the burden of proof in corruption and illicit enrichment cases so alleged misconduct by officials while in office can be more readily pursued anytime when off the job. Private citizens are also included.
Main opposition Coalition for Democratic Change Secretary General Jefferson Koijee said the Boakai administration would manipulate the law and weaponized prosecutorial agencies to arrest and indict Weah in an attempt to block his participation in the 2029 general and presidential elections
