Former Liberian President George Manneh Weah has raised alarm over what he describes as the “dangerous erosion” of democracy and rule of law under the administration of President Joseph Boakai, warning that recent political tensions threaten the country’s hard-won peace.
Weah’s remarks came during a closed-door meeting with a high-level delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at his office in Paynesville on Tuesday. The discussions focused on escalating disputes within Liberia’s House of Representatives, which Weah alleges are being fueled by the Boakai government’s support for “lawless actions” by some lawmakers.
The former president, who conceded defeat to Boakai in the 2023 elections, emphasized that his decision to accept the results was driven by a commitment to national stability.
“My concession before the final results were announced was to preserve peace and reduce post-election tensions,” Weah told the ECOWAS delegation. “But today, the actions of this administration, some of which blatantly violate our Constitution, are putting Liberia’s security and democratic progress at risk.”
While Weah did not specify the alleged constitutional violations, his statement follows weeks of political turmoil in Liberia’s legislature, including heated debates over leadership positions and accusations of procedural misconduct. Critics of the Boakai administration claim it has overreached in influencing legislative affairs, while supporters argue that reforms are necessary to address corruption and inefficiency.
The ECOWAS delegation, led by former Nigerian Foreign Minister Ibrahim Gambari, a seasoned diplomat who also served as a UN Under-Secretary-General, reiterated the regional bloc’s commitment to upholding democratic norms in Liberia.
“ECOWAS stands with Liberia in ensuring that governance adheres to the rule of law and the principles of democracy,” Gambari said after the meeting. “We encourage all parties to resolve differences through dialogue and within constitutional frameworks.”
The delegation’s visit signals growing regional concern over Liberia’s political climate, just two years after a closely watched election that was praised for its peaceful transition of power. Analysts warn that prolonged instability could undo years of progress since the end of Liberia’s civil wars.
Supporters of President Boakai have dismissed Weah’s criticisms as politically motivated, arguing that the current administration is working to correct systemic imbalances from the previous government.
“President Boakai is committed to accountability and transparency,” said Emmanuel Johnson, a spokesman for the ruling Unity Party. “Any claims of undermining democracy are baseless distractions.”
However, opposition figures and civil society groups have echoed Weah’s concerns, calling for urgent mediation to prevent further escalation.
“Liberia cannot afford another crisis,” said Martha Karnga, director of the Center for Democratic Governance. “Leaders must prioritize national unity over partisan interests.”
As tensions simmer, all eyes remain on Monrovia to see whether dialogue or deepening divisions will shape Liberia’s political future.
