Liberia

In the swirling chaos of Liberia's recent past, hope for accountability appears to be dwindling. The establishment of a war crimes court, envisioned as a beacon of justice for the victims of the country’s 14-year civil conflict, is now shrouded in uncertainty. A pivotal player, the U.S. government, which was once anticipated to provide significant financial support, seems to be recalibrating its priorities. What does this mean for the aspirations of many Liberians seeking justice? Mark Toner, the outgoing U.S. Ambassador to…

On Thursday, a throng of passionate protesters gathered in the heart of Monrovia, expressing deep frustration over what they perceive as ineffective governance under President Joseph Boakai. The demonstration was spearheaded by a newly formed civil society group, Solidarity Trust for a New Day (STAND), which rallied individuals from various parts of the city. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as protesters clutched placards and chanted for their voices to be heard, urging either President Boakai or Vice President…

The Liberian government has firmly stated that it has not received any formal request to accept illegal migrants from the United States. This declaration follows widespread public unease stirred by media reports indicating that five African leaders who visited the White House on July 9 were allegedly approached by the administration of former President Donald Trump regarding the acceptance of deportees. The implications of this situation are complex, raising numerous questions about the responsibility of nations and the…

During a recent meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump commended Liberian President Joseph Boakai for his remarkable command of the English language. This encounter, which also included leaders from five other African nations, showcased a moment of genuine appreciation. Trump expressed admiration, even inquiring about how Boakai honed his impressive language skills. Yet, beneath this seemingly innocent praise lies a deeper narrative that deserves scrutiny. Critics swiftly seized upon this incident, interpreting…

In a remarkable turn of events, mixed communications have emerged from both the government of Liberia and the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia following the announcement of a staggering U.S.$1.8 billion deal with Ivanhoe Atlantic, a subsidiary of the prominent U.S. mining company High Power Exploration (HPX). On July 7, the embassy expressed optimism, asserting that the agreement could significantly bolster Liberia's economy. But how firm is that optimism? Just days later, Mines and Energy Minister Wilmont Paye cast a shadow over…

Next week promises to be a pivotal moment in international relations as U.S. President Donald Trump embarks on his first significant diplomatic initiative focused on Africa since re-entering the political arena. A summit of this magnitude raises important questions: What will be the outcome of these discussions? What implications will this gathering have on U.S.-Africa relations moving forward? The meeting is set to convene five esteemed African leaders: President Joseph Nyuma Boakai of Liberia, President Bassirou Diomaye…

In a poignant ceremony, Liberia recently conducted a reburial for its former President, William Tolbert, precisely 45 years after his tragic assassination during a coup in 1980. This event served not only as a remembrance but also as a vital chapter in the nation’s complex history, marked by trauma and resilience. To chronicle such a narrative, we must delve deeper. Just ten days following Tolbert's brutal murder, 13 of his Cabinet members were subjected to a summary execution that remains seared into the collective memory…

In a pivotal moment for Liberian politics, a coalition of opposition parties has emphatically called for the appointment of a special prosecutor. This comes in light of serious allegations regarding witness tampering and claims of "torture" linked to the investigation of a devastating fire that ravaged parts of the building housing the national legislature. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. This coalition, comprising several significant political entities, issued a robust joint statement accusing the…

President Joseph Boakai has taken a firm stance in defense of his choice to travel via private jet for international engagements, asserting that this decision is not rooted in an ostentatious lifestyle. Yet, the controversy surrounding his travel habits continues to swirl, especially among opposition figures who are quick to spotlight what they deem a disconnect between his earlier critiques of luxury travel by his predecessor and his current practices. In a candid interview with the BBC, President Boakai remarked, “I can…

The administration of President Donald Trump is reportedly contemplating a travel ban affecting nationals from an additional 36 countries. Alarmingly, 25 of these nations are located in Africa, as detailed in recent communications from the State Department. These outlines enumerate a multitude of concerns, urging the involved countries to implement corrective measures within a stipulated timeframe. Earlier this month, the president enacted a proclamation that barred citizens from 12 specific countries from entering the…