RNC Political Leader Foams Over Annual Message

Othello Sarweh Nimely

MONROVIA–mounted the podium at the Capitol Building to deliver his Annual Message on the affairs of the state, but the rancor and condemnation continue to hover and yet to settle since then.

The Political Leader of the Reformers National Congress (RNC), Rev. Alexander Kollie, is one of several political leaders adding his voice to many others, sharply criticizing the 2026 Address as having been disconnected from the lived realities of ordinary Liberians and more akin to “political theatre” than an honest assessment of the country’s condition.

‎‎In a statement issued on recently following the President’s address delivered on January 26, 2026, Kollie said the RNC carefully reviewed the speech and felt compelled, as patriots, to speak truthfully to the Liberian people. According to him, leadership must always be held to account, especially on issues affecting the daily survival of citizens.

‎“The President’s State of the Nation Address was detached from reality and appeared more like political theatre than a factual and honest report on the true condition of our nation,” Kollie stated.

‎The RNC leader argued that the address relied heavily on projections, promises, and recycled commitments, while failing to demonstrate clear and measurable improvements in the lives of ordinary Liberians.

‎ He noted that although the President referenced figures and reforms, these, in his view, amounted to “window dressing” that masked the harsh socio-economic conditions across the country.‎

‎Rev Kollie pointed out that poverty remains widespread, unemployment is alarmingly high, food insecurity is increasing, and public services continue to fall short of citizens’ expectations. He challenged the administration’s claims of economic progress, insisting that realities on the ground contradict the optimistic tone of the President’s speech.

‎A major point of contention raised by the RNC was the President’s assertion that 70,000 jobs have been created. Alexander Kollie demanded clarity and independent verification, questioning the nature and quality of the jobs referenced.

‎“What kinds of jobs are these? Are they permanent or temporary? Do they provide living wages or mere survival-level income?” he asked, adding that many jobs in Liberia remain informal, short-term, and poorly paid, offering little security or dignity to workers.

‎Another concern raised was the lack of concrete action plans in the President’s speech. While ambitious initiatives were mentioned, the RNC said the address failed to provide clear timelines, measurable benchmarks, or transparent implementation strategies.

‎Beyond policy concerns, the Reformer National congress leader also expressed unease about what he described as ongoing political tensions and weak engagement with opposition parties under the Boakai administration. He warned that such an approach undermines national unity, social cohesion, and public trust in democratic institutions, stressing the need for inclusive governance.

‎‎The Reformers National Congress maintained that while the President highlighted certain economic indicators and institutional reforms, the SONA painted an overly optimistic picture that does not reflect everyday realities, lacked transparency, and failed to confront Liberia’s persistent challenges.

‎“Liberians do not need illusions. They need honesty. They do not need projections; they need progress,” Rev Kollie said, reaffirming the RNC’s commitment to holding the government accountable and standing with the Liberian people in their quest for genuine development and responsive leadership.