Former Monrovia Mayor Calls for U.S. Intervention in Liberia’s Political Crisis
Jefferson T. Koijee, Secretary General of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change in Liberia, has written to U.S. President Trump requesting intervention in Liberia’s political crisis under President Boakai. He accuses the administration of corruption, human rights abuses, and undermining democracy. Koijee calls for accountability regarding U.S. aid, urges a reconsideration of deportations of Liberians, and stresses the importance of defending religious values.
Jefferson T. Koijee, the Secretary General of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), has issued an open letter to U.S. President Donald J. Trump, advocating for intervention in the political turmoil currently affecting Liberia. In his correspondence, dated March 3, Koijee characterizes the situation in Liberia as dire, attributing the instability to President Joseph Boakai’s administration that he claims is undermining democratic processes.
Koijee’s letter outlines significant issues plaguing Liberia under Boakai, including rampant corruption, human rights violations, and widespread political unrest. He argues that the president’s administration has committed unconstitutional acts, such as the unlawful ousting of Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, which he believes has severely weakened Liberia’s democratic institutions.
The Secretary General further condemns the alleged human rights abuses perpetrated under Boakai’s leadership, highlighting the deaths of over 100 individuals attributed to police brutality and state-sponsored violence within the last year. He emphasizes the absence of accountability for these actions, asserting that they contribute to the ongoing political and social instability in Liberia.
Koijee also points out the financial misconduct within the Boakai administration, accusing it of misappropriating millions intended for development initiatives. He refers to examples such as dubious expenditures and fraudulent dealings at the National Oil Company of Liberia, which he claims have deprived citizens of essential services and exacerbated poverty levels nationwide.
The letter addresses concerns regarding foreign aid, specifically alleging that USAID funds have been misused to sway elections favoring Boakai’s ruling Unity Party. He demands an inquiry into the utilization of U.S. foreign aid, cautioning against the potential misuse of taxpayer money to sustain a corrupt regime.
Moreover, Koijee implores President Trump to reconsider the deportation of 1,563 Liberians residing in the United States, many of whom fled persecution and violence in Liberia. He warns that returning these individuals to Liberia could place them in significant danger within a volatile political climate.
Koijee acknowledges Trump’s efforts in promoting religious values in the U.S., notably through the Faith Advisory Council, which fosters religious liberty. He reiterates the necessity of defending Christian values and fighting against detrimental ideologies affecting both nations.
In summary, Koijee calls for firm U.S. leadership in combating corruption, promoting human rights, and safeguarding democracy in Liberia. He urges President Trump to align with the Liberian populace in their quest for peace and stability under the current adverse conditions.
In conclusion, Jefferson T. Koijee has articulated a pressing appeal to President Trump, underscoring the systemic corruption and human rights violations unfolding in Liberia under President Joseph Boakai’s governance. He calls for governmental accountability, the prevention of aid misuse, and protection for vulnerable Liberians, advocating for U.S. intervention to foster democratic integrity and human rights in the nation’s political landscape.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
