MONROVIA-Former Speaker of the Liberian House of Representatives, Dr. Bhofal Chambers, has sharply criticized the Joseph Boakai administration, accusing the government of failing to address key national challenges while urging Liberians to maintain peace ahead of former President George Weah’s return to the country.
Chambers made the remarks Sunday during a special press conference held on behalf of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), where he spoke in his capacity as Chairman of the Special Committee established to coordinate activities surrounding Weah’s arrival in Liberia on September 2.
The former Speaker said the CDC’s focus is on welcoming the former president peacefully and ensuring that his return does not become a source of political division.
He called on the government to protect Weah and his supporters, stressing that Liberia belongs to all Liberians regardless of political affiliation.
“This party is not for a single party. You cannot polarize this country. We cannot divide this country,” Chambers said, while calling for national unity and responsible leadership.
Chambers Raises Concerns Over Drug Trafficking Investigation
A significant portion of Chambers’ remarks focused on Liberia’s ongoing fight against illicit drug trafficking and allegations surrounding the government’s handling of major drug investigations.
He questioned the circumstances surrounding the removal of a senior law enforcement official who, according to him, had raised concerns about alleged involvement of government officials in drug trafficking.
Chambers argued that law enforcement officers who speak out in the interest of the country should not be punished for doing so.
He also called for greater transparency and evidence in ongoing drug-related cases, saying Liberians deserve clear explanations about investigations, arrests and the evidence being presented.
According to Chambers, the government must ensure that allegations are investigated fairly and that individuals accused of wrongdoing are given due process.
Criticizes Government’s Handling of Economy and Infrastructure
The former Speaker also expressed concern about the state of Liberia’s economy, questioning how the country could have a national budget exceeding US$1 billion while many citizens continue to face serious economic difficulties.
He urged the government to be more careful about policies that could place additional economic pressure on ordinary Liberians.
Chambers also criticized aspects of the country’s transportation system, particularly the movement of heavy vehicles on roads alongside smaller passenger vehicles.
He proposed a system in which heavy-duty vehicles could be regulated separately and charged fees that could contribute to road maintenance.
Calls for Government to “Sanitize” Its Administration
Chambers urged President Joseph Boakai to take stronger control of his administration and address what he described as growing problems within government.
“President Boakai has experience. He must sanitize his government,” Chambers said, warning that problems within the administration could undermine public confidence.
He also called for accountability among officials surrounding the President, arguing that presidential aides and government officials must provide honest advice rather than mislead the head of state.
“Leadership is a privilege. It is an opportunity to lead,” he emphasized.
Warns Over National Security and Border Issues
Chambers further raised concerns about Liberia’s internal and external security, particularly conditions along the country’s borders.
He said national security should not be treated lightly and urged the government to strengthen its ability to respond to threats both within Liberia and along its borders.
He also called for greater attention to the concerns of young people, saying unemployment and insecurity remain major challenges confronting the country.
CDC Calls for Peaceful Welcome of Weah
As preparations intensify for George Weah’s return, Chambers appealed to CDC supporters and all Liberians to remain peaceful.
He described Weah as a former president returning to Liberia in peace and urged the government to ensure his safety.
“Our former president, welcome! He is coming in peace. He is a man of peace,” Chambers said.
He also called on CDC supporters in Montserrado and across Liberia to participate peacefully in welcoming the former president.
Chambers maintained that Liberia’s national interest must come before political differences, stressing that the country cannot afford further division.
The CDC is expected to continue preparations for Weah’s September 2 arrival, with Chambers leading the special committee responsible for coordinating the welcome activities.