UP Lauds Boakai On Cocaine Action

By: Barclay Karnley Jr 

MONROVIA: The governing Unity Party (UP), Legislative Caucus has commended the Government of Liberia, under the leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, for the swift actions taken against officials suspected of involvement in the recent drug seizure.

In a statement released by UP’s Caucus Chairman, Representative Robert Womba, the Caucus views President Boakai’s actions as a strong demonstration of the Government's commitment to transparency, accountability, and uncompromising in the fight against illicit drugs, transnational organized crime, and drug trafficking. 


UP Caucus believes that no individual, regardless of status or position in government or society, should be above the rule of law when credible allegations of criminal conduct arise, particularly those involving the importation, trafficking, distribution, or sale of illegal narcotics.


The Unity Party Legislative Caucus also calls on the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) and the Joint National Security institutions, acting under the authority of President Boakai, to conduct a ‘comprehensive, impartial, and professional investigation’ into the matter. 


"Individuals found culpable, based on credible evidence and in accordance with due process of law, should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of Liberia's laws. Conversely, those found not to have engaged in any wrongdoing should have their innocence publicly affirmed," the statement added 

The UP Legislative Caucus further urged Liberians, particularly political leaders, commentators, and members of the public, to refrain from ‘politicizing this sensitive national security matter’ or making statements that could prejudice the ongoing investigation. 

"The fight against illegal narcotics is a national responsibility that transcends political affiliations. Attempts to exploit this investigation for political advantage risk undermining public confidence and could interfere with the work of law enforcement agencies and the Government's broader efforts to combat drug trafficking," the Caucus emphasized.


The Caucus also commends the Joint Security, under the leadership of the Ministry of Justice, for its dedication and professionalism in pursuing the facts surrounding this case. 

The Caucus, at the same time, encouraged citizens to cooperate fully with the relevant authorities by providing credible information that may assist the investigation.

According to the Unity Party Legislative Caucus, it remains steadfast in the commitment to supporting all lawful measures aimed at protecting Liberia from the devastating effects of drug trafficking and organized criminal networks. 

'We further reaffirm our commitment to strengthening legislation, promoting effective oversight, and supporting policies that uphold the rule of law and safeguard the security and well-being of the Liberian people," Caucus concluded.

In a related development, the Unity Party Legislative Caucus has extended its commendation to the Government of Liberia and President Boakai for the dedication of the newly paved 81-kilometer Gbarnga–Salayea Road and the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Salayea–Konia Road and Zorzor–Yeala Road projects.

The Caucus described the projects as a significant step toward fulfilling the Unity Party-led Government's commitment to improving road connectivity, expanding economic opportunities, and enhancing the lives of Liberians, particularly the people of Bong and Lofa Counties.

According to the Caucus, the completion of the Gbarnga–Salayea Road marks the culmination of years of collaboration between the Government of Liberia and its international development partners adding that the project experienced significant delays and took more than eight years from its effective commencement to completion.

The ruling party Legislative caucus further maintained that the Boakai's Administration remain steadfast in its commitment to bringing development to fruition while simultaneously securing financing for the next phases of the corridor.

The newly paved 81-kilometer road now provides a vital link between Bong and Lofa Counties, significantly improving transportation between central and northern Liberia. 

"This development will provide much-needed relief to citizens by reducing travel time, lowering transportation costs, cilitating the movement of people and goods, boosting agricultural production, expanding trade, and stimulating economic activity throughout the region," they emphasized.

The Caucus further applauds the Boakai's Administration for securing US$72.8 million in financing from the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), and the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development to pave the next 56 kilometers of the corridor, including the 50-kilometer Salayea–Konia Road and the 6-kilometer Zorzor–Yeala Road.

The Unity Party Legislative Caucus further calls on contractors undertaking the projects to execute the works with professionalism, efficiency, and in accordance with the agreed timelines, in support of the Government of Liberia's development agenda. 

"Timely completion of these projects will ensure that citizens begin benefiting from these strategic investments without unnecessary delays," the Caucus averred.

Meanwhile, the Unity Party Legislative Caucus has proposed a three-day legislative retreat to be held in Gbarnga, Bong County with an aim to comprehensively evaluate the performance of the Unity Party-led Government and develop a strategic roadmap to guide the Caucus over the next three years. 

According to the Caucus, the retreat will also foster constructive dialogue and strengthen coordination among members in advancing the Government's legislative agenda and provide an opportunity to assess the Government's achievements, identify areas requiring improvement, and recommend practical measures to enhance public service delivery. 

The Caucus emphasized that the retreat will examine emerging national challenges, promote stronger collaboration between the Executive and Legislative branches, and prepare members of the National Legislature for the Third Quarter of the legislative session.

The Unity Party Legislative Caucus reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting policies and development initiatives that improve the lives of the Liberian people, strengthen national unity, and accelerate sustainable national development.