President Joseph Boakai's 2025 State of the Nation Address, while commendable in its ambitions, falls short in addressing several critical concerns that Liberians continue to face. The Rule of Law Caucus acknowledges the effort to present a comprehensive plan, but the speech raises more questions than it answers.
The President paints a picture of progress under the ARREST Agenda, but many Liberians still face worsening economic hardship. Rising unemployment, limited access to basic services, and stagnant living standards persist. The claim that Liberia's economy is "in a better place" does not align with the experiences of everyday citizens struggling to put food on their tables. The reported 5.1% GDP growth is largely driven by resource extraction and international support. However, this growth is neither inclusive nor impactful at the grassroots level. What has been done to diversify the economy beyond mining and agriculture? While inflation is reportedly down to 7.7%, the reduction in the price of essential goods like rice and fuel has been marginal at best, with many Liberians still unable to afford basic necessities.
The President outlines ambitious legislative and policy proposals, but these remain largely theoretical. Why haven't critical bills like the Local Government Bill, Zoning Law, and National Tourism Bill been prioritized earlier if they are so vital to the ARREST Agenda? Passing legislation is one thing; implementing it effectively is another. What mechanisms are in place to ensure these laws translate into real improvements for citizens?
The President speaks of "improved governance" and "anti-corruption," yet fails to detail tangible actions against corruption within his administration. The creation of more commissions and authorities, such as the proposed State-Owned Enterprises Authority of Liberia (SEAL), risks bloating the bureaucracy without addressing systemic inefficiencies or holding corrupt officials accountable. Where are the results of investigations into alleged mismanagement of public funds? How many officials have been prosecuted or dismissed for corrupt practices under this administration? The Rule of Law Caucus remains skeptical of the government's ability to manage $3 billion in foreign investment without clear accountability frameworks.
The speech repeatedly highlights grants, loans, and international support as major drivers of development. While external partnerships are important, Liberia cannot sustain its progress on foreign aid alone. Liberia's debt burden already exceeds 54% of GDP. What is the government's long-term strategy to reduce this dependency and fund its ambitious $8.4 billion ARREST Agenda without further indebting the nation? The President claims Liberia is on the path to self-reliance, yet little was said about fostering private-sector growth or promoting local entrepreneurship.
The proposed Liberia Youth Service Program (LYSEP) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Commission are laudable ideas, but there is no evidence of immediate impact. Young people remain unemployed or underemployed in alarming numbers. What short-term measures are in place to address this crisis? Training programs are only effective if they align with the demands of the job market. What partnerships with the private sector have been secured to create jobs for program graduates?
Infrastructure remains a key talking point, yet citizens are still grappling with poor road conditions, limited energy access, and unreliable public services. While the President claims the Road Fund is fully operational, many areas across Liberia remain inaccessible due to poor roads. What is the timeline for completing promised road rehabilitation projects? The administration has failed to provide a clear roadmap for achieving reliable, affordable electricity nationwide--a critical driver of economic growth.
The President's call for reconciliation and unity is admirable but lacks actionable steps. Liberia continues to face deep-seated divisions along ethnic, political, and socio-economic lines. The absence of targeted policies to address these cleavages weakens the administration's claims of fostering inclusivity.
The speech glosses over Liberia's growing security concerns, particularly the rising tide of drug abuse and youth violence. Establishing the Office of War and Economic Crimes Courts (WECC) is a step forward, but the President failed to outline a clear plan for implementation or address delays in its operationalization.
President Boakai's address demonstrates an understanding of Liberia's challenges and aspirations, but the Rule of Law Caucus remains unconvinced of his administration's ability to deliver on its promises. The speech relies heavily on optimism and international support while neglecting the immediate needs of ordinary Liberians. Without tangible actions and measurable results, the ARREST Agenda risks becoming just another ambitious plan lost in execution.
The Rule of Law Caucus calls for greater transparency, accountability, and urgency in addressing Liberia's most pressing issues. Liberians deserve more than promises--they deserve real progress.