CDC Grades Govt. 2024 Performance as Failure – Says Progress Clouded by Breach of the Rule of Law, Corruption, Inefficiency

The opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) says the Joseph Nyuma Boakai administration has failed miserably to lift the hopes of the nation during its first year in office, noting that progress in the country has been clouded by a series of setbacks, characterized by corruption, inefficiency, and a troubling breach of the rule of law.

The country’s largest opposition party made its position known about what it considered a concerning decline in Liberia’s democratic values when it issued a Year End Statement on January 2, 2024, where the CDC among other things observed that the suppression of dissent and the plight of Liberians have become alarmingly prevalent due to inadequate governance.

“Public offices have become over-politicized, leading to widespread disarray in civil service, where merit is often overshadowed by political loyalty. We have also seen incidents of violence, including police brutality, causing further distress among our citizens.

“The lengthy legislative standstill and rising constitutional crises have deeply affected the integrity of our judiciary. The lack of respect for Supreme Court rulings poses not only a threat to our institutions but also to the very foundations of our fledgling democracy. “Of particular concern is the administration’s troubling inclination to forge alliances with regimes that flout democratic principles.

Such actions, including the handling of political asylum seekers without adherence to due process, put our democracy at grave risk and tarnish our nation’s reputation on the global stage. “Furthermore, we have witnessed alarming human rights violations and repression against both peaceful protesters and journalists.

The tragic incidents surrounding the deaths of peaceful demonstrators, such as Abraham Kerkula and Essah Massaley, reflect a dire situation that must not be ignored. The treatment of those who assemble peacefully, including the arrests following the December 17 assembly, represents a disturbing trend that necessitates urgent attention and action,” the CDC stated emphatically. According to the statement issued by the CDC National Chairman Atty. Janga A. Kowo, the party’s resolve to stand with the Liberian people remains unwavering.

“We believe in the power of unity and collective effort to drive meaningful change and restore dignity to our nation. As we enter 2025, we urge all citizens to come together in pursuit of accountability, transparency, and the good governance we sorely need. “Let us envision a future where everyone’s rights are honored, voices are amplified, and our leaders are held responsible for their actions. Together, we can lay the groundwork for a just and thriving Liberia.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Anwar Futlo and others who have lost their lives under mysterious circumstances this past year. It is imperative that the government conduct thorough investigations into these tragic incidents and address the rising tide of mob violence.

Here’s to a New Year filled with hope and determination. Let us stand resolute as we advocate for the rights of the Liberian people,” the statement concluded.