Former Solicitor General Sayma Syrenius Cephus is predicting a worsening economic hardship in Liberia, stressing that the country is plummeting into hunger. In an open letter, Cllr. Cephus wants President Joseph Nyumah Boakai to look beyond official reports and witness the suffering firsthand by visiting communities.
Critique of Leadership and Governance Cephus claims that Liberians are suffering, for which he wants President Boakai to make unannounced visits to deprived areas, including West Point and Soniwein, as well as his own hometown in River Gee, to grasp the true extent of the economic crisis.
He expressed concerns about the President’s accessibility, suggesting he has become isolated and overly influenced by a small circle of close associates. Cephus accused these individuals of abusing their power and failing to perform their duties. He called on Boakai to prioritize competence and professionalism in appointments, rather than resorting to regional favoritism.
Additionally, Cephus frowned at the approach the Boakai administration using to handle the drug crisis, thus criticizing the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) for allegedly targeting drug users instead of the major importers. He described the recent suspensions and dismissals within the agency as evidence of a failed strategy.
However, the Government of Liberia, through its Deputy Spokesperson Daniel Sando, refuted the claims of the former Solicitor General, terming them false and overly pessimistic, while asserting that the government is actively working to address the challenges faced by citizens.
He highlighted improvements such as the stability of electricity, the role of the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation in providing water to nearly every community, and the timely payment of civil servant salaries without harmonization, seeking to address previously raised concerns. Sando urged Cllr. Cephus to speak the truth and acknowledge the positive actions the government is taking, rather than ignoring the substantial progress made in just a year and a half.
