The ongoing strategy of President Joseph N. Boakai’s government to suspend officials without expulsion was highlighted during Liberia’s 178th Independence Day celebrations. The orator, Rev. Emmett Dunn, urged President Boakai to stop suspending officials and instead fire those who are ineffective.
Speaking on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Centennial Pavilion in Monrovia, Rev. Dunn praised Boakai’s government for its humility and character, noting that the President’s commitment has brought a new tone to the country’s politics. Rev. Dunn urged the Liberian leader to govern boldly, transparently, and justly while challenging the old order and empowering the next generation. He emphasized the need to fire, rather than just suspend, nonperforming and corrupt officials.
He pointed out that a second term in government is not guaranteed, stressing the importance of holding the President accountable for cleaning up the existing issues. Dunn stated that cleaning up the government would benefit the thousands of supporters who stood in the rain for Boakai, as well as all Liberians facing various challenges and hardships.
Moreover, he called on Liberians to view Independence Day not as a mere annual ritual, but as a day of commitment. He reminded the audience of the detrimental effects of disunity in Liberia and urged them to embrace the potential of unity.
He conveyed that progress in Liberia cannot be achieved if loyalty is based solely on self-interest, tribalism, or party politics. Rev. Dunn stated, “We must put our country first. Prioritizing personal interests above political affiliations will only lead to failure. Putting Liberia first means telling the truth, even when it is uncomfortable. It also means rejecting corruption, regardless of who benefits. Mr. President, it is essential that you demand results from those in positions of trust and recognize that the destiny of this country lies not in the hands of a few, but in the hands of all of us.”
Additionally, Rev. Dunn emphasized the importance of a responsible political opposition in a democracy, urging the ruling party not to demonize or disrespect these voices. He explained that in a democracy, the engagement of multiple ruling parties through the exchange of ideas is crucial for the common good. He remarked, “Opposition voices are not the enemy of the state; they are part of the machinery of accountability. A nation that silences its opposition is a nation heading into darkness. We should not fear disagreement but rather fear apathy. We must learn to respect one another, even when we do not agree.” Rev. Dunn concluded that Liberia needs a strong government alongside a strong opposition, and together, they form the essential elements that help democracy thrive.
