Africa News of Friday, 16 May 2025
Source: www.ghanawebbers.com
In a spirit of unity, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has reached out to opposition leaders. He made goodwill telephone calls to signal reconciliation and inclusiveness.
Among those contacted were former President George M. Weah, leader of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC). He also spoke with Alexander B. Cummings from the Alternative National Congress (ANC) and Benoni Wilfred Urey of the All Liberian Party (ALP).
President Boakai also sent a goodwill message to former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. He served as her Vice President from 2006 to 2017.
"I placed special goodwill calls today to former Presidents Sirleaf and Weah," Boakai stated. He also reached out to religious and traditional leaders in Liberia.
These included the Liberia Council of Churches and the National Muslim Council of Liberia. The Chairman of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders was also contacted.
In a podcast on Unification Day, May 14, 2025, President Boakai stressed unity's importance. He assured Liberians that his administration is open to meaningful engagement for national development.
"As we commemorate this day, let us recommit to national unity," he urged. "We must build a peaceful, equitable, and prosperous Liberia for all."
President Boakai praised the peaceful resolution of the recent leadership standoff in the House of Representatives. He congratulated Representative Richard Nagbe Koon on his election as Speaker.
"I extend my warmest congratulations to Honorable Koon," said Boakai. "He must unify the House and focus on serving the Liberian people."
The President commended former Speaker Cllr. Fonati Koffa for his gracious decision during this time. "This moment marks both an end and a new beginning for our service," he added.
Boakai expressed gratitude to all who contributed to this peaceful resolution. He called it a strong reflection of values celebrated on National Unification Day.
"As we return to governance, remember: the time for service is now," he said. "The Liberian people are watching and deserve our best."
He concluded with a call for unity beyond slogans: "Unification must be our way of life." This should reflect how we govern and engage with each other amid challenges ahead.