Liberia’s President Joseph Nyuma Boakai emphasized urgency for accountability and development during his first Cabinet meeting of 2025. He ordered investigations into unsolved deaths and highlighted economic reforms, infrastructure, youth employment, and security enhancements. Notably, he warned officials with presidential ambitions to prioritize governance or resign. Several leading figures are identified as potential candidates for the 2029 election as the nation faces pressing economic challenges.
In Monrovia, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has expressed urgency regarding his administration’s delivery on promises, holding his first Cabinet meeting in 2025. He reaffirmed his dedication to governance focused on national development, accountability, and urgent reforms. To further these goals, President Boakai announced a comprehensive investigation into high-profile cases of unexplained deaths, asserting that the Liberian populace deserves answers and that no case will remain unresolved.
The President directed law enforcement agencies to accelerate investigations and to collaborate with international partners where necessary. He highlighted the importance of overwhelming transparency and hinted at a crackdown on impunity, affirming that justice must prevail to close these tragic cases.
President Boakai also established pressing priorities for his administration, emphasizing economic strengthening and public financial management. This initiative aims to close financial loopholes, reduce wasteful spending, and foster fiscal responsibility. He underscored the necessity of enhancing road connectivity in southeastern Liberia to boost economic growth while addressing youth unemployment through innovative job creation strategies.
In terms of security, he stressed the need for enhanced safety protocols at Roberts International Airport in light of illegal mineral trafficking concerns. He insisted upon rigorous accountability for ongoing corruption and mismanagement investigations.
Further mandates included upgrading the Ministerial Complex to international standards and ensuring functional streetlights in Monrovia, along with energizing the National AIDS Commission to better assist affected populations. The President presented these directives as non-negotiable expectations for his Cabinet, demanding swift action and tangible outcomes.
A significant topic during the meeting was President Boakai’s comments about prospective presidential aspirations within his administration. He urged officials not focused on the 2029 elections to consider resignation, stating, “The time for talk is over. My priority is serving the Liberian people—right now.” This remark underscores his intent to prioritize governance over personal ambitions.
The article highlights several individuals next in line for the 2029 presidential election should President Boakai choose not to run. Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung is seen as a leading contender, continuing to establish his political foundation while promoting youth opportunities in his home county of Nimba.
Foreign Minister Sarah Beysolow-Nyanti, with her extensive diplomatic background, has been recognized for solidifying Liberia’s international ties, positioning her as a potential presidential candidate. Similarly, MacDella Cooper, a notable political figure, is also eyeing the presidency while maintaining her strategic partnerships within Boakai’s administration.
Cllr. Cooper Kruah, serving as Minister of Labour and National Chairman of the MDR Party, is gaining political prominence as he supports Vice President Koung’s aspirations for 2029. Other figures to watch include Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey-Yarkpawolo, who plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role, and Cornelius Kruah, actively lobbying support for Koung.
Edward Appleton, currently the Liberian Ambassador to Japan, has emerged as a noteworthy political presence and could re-enter the political arena, while Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan is also being contemplated as a presidential candidate, aiming to unite support from within the Unity Party.
As Liberia faces ongoing economic and political challenges along with reduced U.S. aid, President Boakai’s mandate presents a test of loyalty and commitment among officials harboring ambitions. The reality of whether they will concentrate on effective governance or personal aspirations for 2029 remains to be observed.
President Boakai’s recent Cabinet meeting underscored the urgency of governance centered on accountability and development in Liberia. His directive for thorough investigations into unresolved cases reflects a commitment to justice and transparency. Furthermore, with ambitions for the 2029 presidency emerging among key officials, Boakai’s warning serves both as a challenge and a litmus test, as he seeks adherence to his administration’s priorities amidst significant political and economic pressures.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
