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MONROVIA-The Revolutionary National Youth League of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) says it stands in solidarity with the patriotic citizens of Liberia who have gathered at the Capitol to protest the proliferation of illicit drug trafficking and abuse.
In a release, the CDC Youth League noted that for the past two years, the increase in drug trafficking and substance abuse has skyrocketed, leaving many communities in the capital and around the country unsafe.
“Liberia, once a beacon of stability, has become a hotbed for drug activity, with the country now having one of the highest rates of drug use in West Africa. A new drug called “Zombie,” first discovered in 2024, has been particularly devastating to young people,” the group noted.
CDC youth league added that according to reports, two or three out of every ten youths in Liberia use narcotic substances, and their addiction often leads to a rise in crimes such as armed robbery and theft.
“Furthermore, the Revolutionary National Youth League of CDC appreciates former President George M. Weah for his commitment to the future of the nation’s youth. In 2023, he boldly signed the “Controlled Drugs and Substance Bill” into law, a critical step to combat drug trafficking and abuse. However, despite this legislation, the crisis has worsened significantly under the current Unity Party government,” the release noted.
CDC Youth League added that President Boakai and his administration have failed to combat this menace noting, “The frequent changes in leadership at the Liberian Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) highlight a gross incompetence and a lack of political will. The President’s recent call for the implementation of the drug law, while blaming the previous administration, is nothing more than a cosmetic gesture.”
The release noted, “We challenge President Boakai to begin by enforcing the law within his own house, starting with his children, Tan Tan Boakai and Joe Boakai Jr., who have been allegedly identified as major importers and distributors of narcotic substances. We also challenge him to bring the former LDEA Director and his deputies to justice for their alleged roles in facilitating the importation of large drug shipments. The fight against illicit drugs requires practical steps and political will, not empty words from the Executive Mansion.”
“As thousands of Liberians march today, we stand with the mothers whose children are affected, the young people who are suffering from addiction, and the communities that have become unsafe. We condemn the hypocrisy of government officials and legislators who are joining these marches while failing to perform their duties. They have a responsibility to provide oversight and enforce the laws that protect our country from drug trafficking and abuse.”
The release said, “Meanwhile, as we all march today to say “NO TO DRUGS,” we call for this energy to extend into our communities. We must identify the people importing drugs, expose the spots where young people are being lured, and take collective citizen action to protect our communities, our youth, and the future of our nation.
Alphonso Toweh
Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters
He holds first MA with honors in International Relations and a candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict Resolution from the University of Liberia.