Liberian News: Nat’l Confab On Post-War Infrastructure In Sight

Monrovia- President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has proposed a constitutional reform, national unity, and inclusive development under his administration.

Delivering his second State-of-the-Nation address at the Capitol Building Monday January 27, 2025, President Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing Liberia’s historic challenges and charting a path toward sustained progress.

Boakai Speaking under the theme, “From Rescue to Development: Implementing the ARREST Agenda, stressed the necessity of a constitutional review, saying that it’s a “Moment of Truth” for the nation. “I will propose a review of our Constitution to address shortcomings in our Organic Law.”

President Boakai highlighted critical areas requiring immediate attention including strengthening democratic institutions, fostering inclusivity, and addressing systemic weaknesses in governance. Among the proposed changes, the President vowed to introduce comprehensive electoral reforms aimed at enhancing the credibility and transparency of the nation’s electoral process.

He noted, “We will propose comprehensive electoral reforms to strengthen our electoral process and democratic credentials,”

President Boakai’s reform agenda also according to him, includes plans to tackle the unresolved issues of national unity and historical grievances. As part of these efforts, he pledged to convene a National Conference on Post-War Infrastructure, which would address the rebuilding and development of Liberia’s post-conflict infrastructure.

In a gesture of reconciliation and historical justice, President Boakai announced plans to honor the legacies of former Presidents William R. Tolbert Jr. and Samuel K. Doe. “I will initiate plans for the proper burial of former presidents William R. Tolbert and Samuel K. Doe,” he said.

The Liberian leader committed to recognizing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for their critical role in maintaining peace and stability during Liberia’s tumultuous periods. “We will propose a plan to recognize ECOWAS for their vital contributions,” he stated.

Addressing the state of the economy, President Boakai painted a picture of resilience and progress. He highlighted a revised real GDP growth rate of 5.1% for 2024, attributing this to strategic investments in sectors such as mining, agriculture, fisheries, and services. Inflation, which had peaked at 10.1% before his administration, was prudently managed down to 7.7% by the end of 2024, with further reductions projected for 2025.

President Boakai credited sound fiscal and monetary policies for the economic turnaround. He also lauded international partners, including the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and USAID, for their continued support. “Our inclusion in the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility program has unlocked additional support from multilateral and bilateral partners,” he said, highlighting a $210 million financing package aimed at addressing macroeconomic imbalances.

A key achievement was the government’s success in mobilizing $734 million in domestic revenue in 2024-the highest in Liberia’s history. “This achievement marks a significant milestone,” he noted, pointing to ongoing tax reforms, including the introduction of a Value-Added Tax (VAT) system, as critical drivers of this success.

Infrastructure development remained a central theme of President Boakai’s address. He reported significant progress in road construction and rehabilitation projects, including the expansion of the Roberts International Airport Road and the near completion of the Sanniquellie to Logatuo Road Project. “Improving road connectivity is a cornerstone of our development agenda,” he affirmed.