“Rule of Law Caucus Slams Boakai SONA Address: Vision Falls Short for Struggling Liberians”

The Rule of Law Caucus headed by Representative Musa Bility has issued a critical response to President Joseph Boakai’s 2025 State of the Nation Address, describing it as ambitious but insufficient in addressing the pressing concerns of ordinary Liberians.

While acknowledging the President’s vision under the ARREST Agenda, the Caucus argued that the speech failed to align with the realities of everyday citizens.

They highlighted ongoing economic hardships, rising unemployment, and limited access to basic services as evidence that the administration’s reported progress has not reached the grassroots level.

The Caucus questioned the reported 5.1% GDP growth, noting that it is largely driven by resource extraction and international support, with little impact on local communities. Despite claims of reduced inflation, the high cost of essential goods like rice and fuel remains a burden for most Liberians.

They at the same time criticized the administration for failing to address corruption effectively. They expressed skepticism over the creation of new institutions like the State-Owned Enterprises Authority of Liberia (SEAL), warning that this could increase bureaucracy without tackling inefficiencies.

The release further  called for accountability regarding allegations of mismanagement within the government, asking for tangible results in investigations and prosecutions.

The Rule of Law Caucus praised initiatives like the Liberia Youth Service Program (LYSEP) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Commission but stressed the lack of immediate solutions to Liberia’s alarming unemployment rate. They urged the administration to secure private-sector partnerships to ensure job creation for program graduates.

The Caucus, in a release, demanded a clear timeline for road rehabilitation and a roadmap for achieving nationwide electricity access.

The release further acknowledged progress in establishing the Office of War and Economic Crimes Courts (WECC) but criticized delays in its operationalization and called for a detailed plan to address these issues.

The Caucus also noted that while the President’s call for reconciliation and unity is commendable, actionable steps to address deep divisions along ethnic, political, and socio-economic lines are missing.

The Rule of Law Caucus expressed doubt over the administration’s ability to implement the ARREST Agenda, citing an overreliance on optimism and foreign aid while neglecting immediate solutions for citizens.