The Former Standard Bearer of the Grand True Whig Party, Eric Olson, is demanding a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the recent crash-landing incident involving an aircraft carrying President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr.
It can be recalled that on last Thursday, May 29, 2025, the country went into shock after news broke out concerning a near-crash situation of a jet carrying President Joseph Nyuma Boakai while landing at the Roberts International Airport.
This led to several flights to Liberia being cancelled with travelers stranded at the airport as airlines like Kenya Airways and Air Peace could not operate since the damaged jet was parked on the runway. Our reporter who went to cover the president’s arrival from Nigeria after attending the ECOWAS 50th anniversary, said the tire of the aircraft appeared to have burst while landing, leading to an automatically switch off of the engine where the president and the rest of the passengers onboard were quickly helped out of the aircraft with no harm to anyone.
Some reports had suggested that the incident was due to issues with the airport’s infrastructure, but authorities dismissed it and stated that the airports’ runway maintains international standards. But speaking on the matter through a statement issued on Friday, May 30, 2025, the former TWP leader said while the airport subsequently reported that normalcy was restored after the removal of the private aircraft from the runway, this incident raises grave concerns about the safety and security of Liberia’s leadership and citizens.
Mr. Olson remarked: “This alarming incident must be viewed with the utmost seriousness. I am deeply disappointed with the Liberia Airport Authority’s response, which appears to lack the transparency necessary to instill public confidence. Such a technical malfunction cannot be dismissed as an isolated issue; it threatens our national stability and the safety of our leaders.”
The TWP leader emphasized the need for accountability: “We demand a full, legislative investigation into this matter. The ownership, maintenance, repairs, and service records of the aircraft must be disclosed without delay. Every government agency involved in its chartering and operation must be held accountable. Our nation’s security depends on the integrity of our transportation systems, and the government must demonstrate unwavering commitment to safeguarding our leadership and people.”
He further asserted: “This incident exposes a systemic vulnerability that calls for urgent reform and oversight within our aviation sector. We cannot afford any lapses when it comes to the safety of our President, our government officials, and our citizens.”
Olson concluded with a call to action: “I urge our lawmakers to prioritize this investigation and ensure full transparency. The future of Liberia depends on accountability at every level of governance. We must uphold the principles of transparency and integrity to secure our nation’s sovereignty and stability.”
