Jefferson Koijee, the former mayor of Liberia’s capital, on Wednesday sharply criticized the administration of President Joseph Boakai, accusing the government of undermining democratic norms as living conditions deteriorate.
Koijee said on his social media platform the Boakai government’s policies have contributed to eroding democratic and governance order, pointing to shrinking civic space, increasing corruption, and fiscal decisions that have burdened ordinary Liberians without improving basic services.
“The Boakai and Koung regime is an organized chaos in governance and a profound curse on our noble country and beloved people,” Koijee said.
“Yet the true soul of a nation rests in the resilient hearts of its citizens. The darkest hour only precedes the dawn.”
Koijee’s remarks collide with growing public unease over economic and political trends that critics say are worsening poverty and weakening institutions across the West African nation.
While the government reports an increase in national revenue over recent fiscal years, independent monitors and opposition figures say the benefits have not reached vulnerable households. Analysts and aid agencies warn that food insecurity and poverty remain pervasive.
Multiple international and local assessments indicate that roughly one-third to one-half of Liberians live below the national poverty line, with rural households disproportionately affected. Those figures reflect stagnant wages, limited formal employment, and rising prices for staples.
Humanitarian agencies report growing food insecurity in parts of Liberia, particularly in rural counties where crop yields have been hit by climate shocks and limited access to markets. Local NGOs say acute malnutrition rates in some districts exceed emergency thresholds.
Despite higher revenue receipts, allocations and outcomes for health, education, and social protection have not shown commensurate improvement, according to budget analysts. School enrollment, vaccine coverage, and primary care access remain patchy, especially outside Monrovia.
Koijee and other critics have accused the administration of narrowing space for dissent and civil society activity. Human rights defenders and journalists report increasing pressure, legal obstacles, and the perception that oversight bodies lack sufficient independence.
The government has enacted new or raised existing taxes in an effort to shore up revenues. But analysts argue the fiscal measures have had disproportionate effects on low-income households without clear improvements to public services.
The Boakai administration has defended its policies, saying efforts to expand the tax base and improve domestic revenue mobilization are necessary to reduce dependence on external aid and invest in long-term infrastructure. Officials argue that reforms take time to generate visible benefits and say anti-corruption measures are being ruthlessly pursued.
