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President Boakai Marks Two Years in Office: Achievements, Challenges, and Public Debate

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai marked two years in office on January 22, 2026, after taking the oath of office in 2024 at the Capitol Building in Monrovia. His victory in the November 2023 runoff election against former President George Weah ushered in a new political chapter for Liberia.

Two years into his term, many Liberians now question whether the 81-year-old leader is delivering on his campaign promises. Others praise what they describe as visible progress across key sectors. In a politically charged environment, opinions on his leadership continue to differ sharply.

Supporters highlight improvements in infrastructure, governance, and economic management. Critics argue that the pace of development remains slow and uneven. The debate over President Boakai’s performance continues to shape national discourse.

The ARREST Agenda and National Development Plan

Upon taking office, President Boakai introduced the ARREST Agenda as his government’s development blueprint. The plan outlines Liberia’s fourth post-conflict National Development Strategy for the period 2025–2029. It aims to promote inclusive growth and address long-standing challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and weak infrastructure.

Key Pillars of the ARREST Agenda

The ARREST Agenda focuses on six strategic areas. These include economic transformation to boost investment and job creation, infrastructure development to modernize roads and energy systems, and human capital development to expand education and healthcare.

The plan also emphasizes agriculture and food security, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion for women and youth. Government officials say these pillars guide national planning and budget priorities.

The “No Car Will Get Stuck” Road Infrastructure Pledge

During the 2023 campaign, President Boakai made a bold promise to improve rural road access. He pledged that no vehicle would get stuck in the mud during the rainy season.

The President later clarified that the pledge focused on maintaining road passability rather than paving every rural corridor. His administration aimed to keep key transport routes open throughout the year.

Since taking office, the government has deployed heavy equipment and invested resources in road rehabilitation. Officials report that crews have upgraded approximately 783 kilometers of roads across the country.

Travelers now report shorter travel times between Monrovia and southeastern Liberia. The Nimba to Grand Gedeh corridor, once a major challenge, has become more accessible. Work has also improved road conditions in Lofa County and parts of Monrovia’s suburbs.

Anti-Corruption Drive and Accountability Measures

Every post-war administration has promised to tackle corruption. President Boakai placed accountability at the center of his leadership agenda.

Since assuming office, he has suspended and dismissed hundreds of officials over alleged violations of asset declaration laws and misuse of public resources. Reports indicate that more than 450 officials faced suspension for failing to declare their assets.

President Boakai, Vice President Jeremiah Koung, and senior government officials led the process by publicly declaring their assets. Supporters describe this move as a strong signal of transparency.

Institutional Reforms

The administration established a War and Economic Crimes Court and an Assets Recovery Taskforce. Officials say these institutions aim to strengthen accountability and recover misappropriated state resources.

Courts across the country now handle cases involving both current and former officials accused of corruption. Public opinion remains divided on the overall impact of these efforts.

Economic Growth and Revenue Performance

The government reports steady economic growth under President Boakai’s leadership. Official figures indicate that the economy grew by 5.1 percent in 2024. Projections estimate growth could reach 5.8 percent in 2025.

Domestic revenue collection reached approximately $695.3 million in 2024. Authorities attribute the 12 percent increase to the introduction of a Value-Added Tax system.

The administration also secured a $210 million financing package from the International Monetary Fund. Development partners such as the World Bank and African Development Bank committed more than $500 million in support.

Exchange Rate Stability

The Liberian dollar now trades between 180 and 190 against the US dollar. The Central Bank of Liberia credits policy interventions for stabilizing the currency after a period of volatility.

Fuel Price Control and Energy Expansion

Many citizens say the government has stabilized petroleum prices. A gallon of gasoline now sells for around $660 Liberian dollars, a figure many consider more affordable than in previous years.

Government agencies monitor fuel pricing to prevent sharp fluctuations. While consumers still face high grocery costs, they acknowledge greater consistency in fuel prices.

National Electrification Goals

The administration launched an ambitious electrification plan to connect 100,000 households annually. Officials aim to achieve 75 percent national electricity access by 2030.

A planned 20-megawatt solar power plant in Montserrado County forms a key part of this strategy. Communities that lacked power since the civil war now report improved access to electricity.

Health and Education Sector Developments

The government reports progress in expanding healthcare and education services. President Boakai broke ground for a National Clinical Diagnostic and Treatment Laboratory in partnership with China.

Authorities also cleared more than $1 million in scholarship arrears. The national school feeding program continues to operate in public schools.

The University of Liberia recently launched doctoral programs. Officials say the move aims to strengthen academic standards and research capacity.

Liberia’s International Relations and Global Standing

Under President Boakai’s leadership, Liberia secured a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term.

The government has also strengthened diplomatic ties with the United States and regional partners. Officials highlight increased cooperation on investment, peace, and security initiatives.

Rice Price Reduction and Food Security

Rice remains Liberia’s staple food. The President ordered a reduction in the price of a 25-kilogram bag from $17 to $14.

Consumers now pay approximately 2,600 Liberian dollars instead of nearly 4,000. Many families describe the price cut as one of the most tangible benefits of the administration’s policies.

War on Drugs and Youth Protection

President Boakai declared drug abuse a national public health emergency during his first annual address to the Legislature.

He and the Vice President publicly took drug tests to demonstrate leadership by example. Both tested negative.

The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency has since increased arrests and seizures. Authorities report confiscating large quantities of narcotics and dismantling drug hubs in Monrovia and surrounding communities.

Officials say these actions aim to protect young people and restore public safety.

National Healing and Historical Reconciliation

The administration took steps toward reconciliation by organizing state burials for former Presidents William R. Tolbert and Samuel Kanyon Doe.

President Boakai said the ceremonies aimed to close painful chapters in Liberia’s history and promote national unity.

Public Debate Over Leadership and Performance

While supporters highlight infrastructure development, economic management, and governance reforms, critics argue that the government has not moved fast enough.

Opposition leaders say challenges in healthcare, employment, and cost of living remain widespread. Supporters counter that meaningful change takes time and requires sustained effort.

As President Boakai enters the second half of his term, the national conversation over his leadership and legacy continues. Liberians remain divided on whether his administration has met expectations or still has significant ground to cover.

This article examines President Joseph Boakai’s first two years in office, focusing on Liberia’s development agenda, economic growth, infrastructure projects, anti-corruption efforts, and social reforms.