Boakai Warned -Veteran Journalist Says Witch-Hunting Clar Weah’s Foundation

MONROVIA – In fragile democracies, governance decisions often carry consequences beyond legal interpretation—they shape public trust, national cohesion, and institutional credibility. As Liberia navigates post-war democratic consolidation under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, tensions surrounding the Clar Hope Foundation have sparked debate over accountability versus political overreach. While the fight against corruption remains legitimate and necessary, critics warn that actions perceived as selective or punitive risk undermining both humanitarian efforts and public confidence in reform. The unfolding controversy tests the administration’s commitment to justice grounded in fairness, restraint, and child-centered compassion in a politically polarized environment. Veteran Journalist Gabriel I.H. Williams sends out admonition to President Boakai.

Liberian journalist and public affairs commentator Gabriel I.H. Williams is calling on the Government of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to exercise caution and balance in its handling of matters involving the Clar Hope Foundation (CHF), warning that actions perceived as politically motivated could generate unintended humanitarian and diplomatic consequences.

Invoking a well-known proverb, Williams stated, “Little drops of water make a mighty ocean. Small actions, when accumulated over time, can grow into powerful currents capable of shaping — or destabilizing — a nation.”

Williams said recent developments in Liberia reflect both commendable progress and areas of concern under the Boakai administration.

“To be fair,” he noted, “the Boakai government deserves recognition for progress in road connectivity, electricity expansion, and Liberia’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. I have personally written articles commending these positive developments.”

However, he added that significant challenges remain.

“Beyond infrastructure and diplomacy, serious concerns persist regarding the fight against corruption, inefficiency in government, and inadequate support to critical sectors like health and education — especially for ordinary Liberians who cannot afford opportunities abroad,” Williams said.

Concerns Over Governance Handling

Williams referenced the controversy surrounding the January 26, 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), which faced public criticism over questionable statistics and was later reported by government to have been leaked before delivery.

“Who leaked such a sensitive national document? Why has no conclusive investigation been made public? Why are those entrusted with safeguarding presidential communications still holding sensitive positions?” Williams asked. “These unanswered questions feed perceptions of nonchalance in leadership.”

He further pointed to the demolition of homes in a densely populated Monrovia community, which left hundreds displaced.

“While enforcement of urban planning laws is legitimate, the manner of execution raised serious humanitarian concerns,” he said. “Many children were left out of school, families were exposed to health risks, and yet no relocation package or compensation has been offered to those affected.”

Clar Hope Foundation Matter

Turning to the Clar Hope Foundation controversy, Williams made clear that he supports lawful accountability efforts.

“Let me be unequivocally clear: I support investigations into the alleged misuse of public resources,” he stated. “Accountability is not optional in a democracy.”

Williams noted that during the Weah administration, he was himself a vocal critic and experienced withheld remuneration for years of service.

“I have never met or communicated with Madam Clar Weah,” he emphasized.

However, he expressed concern about potential humanitarian fallout.

“The Clar Hope Foundation provides education and shelter to vulnerable orphan girls. The critical question is not whether investigations should occur — they should. The question is whether enforcement mechanisms are structured in ways that safeguard the welfare of the children involved.”

He continued: “What crime did the orphan girls commit? What becomes of them if the foundation closes under pressure? These are humanitarian questions, not partisan ones.”

Williams commended former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for visiting the academy, describing the gesture as “maternal concern for vulnerable lives.” He also acknowledged Senator Amara Konneh and other leaders who have engaged with the institution.

To foster unity, Williams recommended outreach from First Lady Kartumu Boakai.

“I respectfully suggest that the First Lady, herself a mother and grandmother, extend solidarity in the spirit of national unity. Liberia must not allow divisive politics to endanger children.”

Diplomatic Considerations

Williams also urged recalibration in Liberia’s diplomatic posture, particularly regarding relations with the United States.

“History teaches us that proactive engagement preserves national credibility,” he said, recounting an episode during the Sirleaf administration when a controversial newspaper closure was reversed following constitutional objections and diplomatic consultations.

“That experience demonstrated that corrective leadership and adherence to due process protect Liberia’s international image,” he noted.

Williams warned that missteps in foreign policy — including alignment decisions without sufficient bilateral consultation — could carry long-term consequences.

“President Boakai must be mindful that strained relations with Liberia’s most important bilateral partner could hurt not only his government but the country as a whole,” he cautioned.

Call for Balance

In conclusion, Williams urged the government to pursue justice with fairness and restraint.

“The pursuit of accountability must not resemble retribution,” he said. “Reform must not appear selective. Enforcement must be firm but humane.”

He reiterated the proverb that framed his statement:

“Little drops form mighty oceans. If handled wisely, they build trust. If mishandled, they erode stability. Liberia’s democracy deserves reform grounded in fairness, compassion, and constitutional integrity.”