Former member of the National Youth Advisory Council to the President, Alphia Faith Kemokai, has issued a detailed clarification surrounding her resignation, addressing public speculation and reaffirming her commitment to youth development and civic engagement in Liberia.
In a public statement, Ms. Kemokai disclosed that she was appointed to the National Youth Advisory Council to President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. on October 11, 2024, and formally submitted her resignation in October 2025. She emphasized that the decision was neither sudden nor reactive, but a carefully considered move made in good faith and with clear intention.
According to her, the resignation officially took effect on December 31, 2025, a timeline she said was deliberately chosen to ensure continuity in the work of the Council and allow sufficient space for the appointment of a successor without disrupting its operations.
Ms. Kemokai noted that she accepted the appointment with a deep sense of responsibility and departed with the same level of conviction, guided by her personal values and long-standing dedication to meaningful youth participation in governance. She described the National Youth Advisory Council as a critical step toward addressing the long-standing gap in youth representation at high-level decision-making tables and expressed gratitude to President Boakai and all stakeholders involved in establishing the body.
Addressing political speculation surrounding her exit, Ms. Kemokai firmly stated that she is not, and has never been, a member of any political party. She explained that her current role as Program Manager of the Young Political Leadership School Africa requires neutrality, integrity, and trust, as her work spans leadership development, elections, and governance across diverse political contexts both within Liberia and beyond.
She further disclosed that allegations linking her resignation to political party influence were false, had been addressed through legal channels, and were eventually retracted with an apology. Ms. Kemokai commended responsible journalism and individuals who stood for truth and fairness during the period of public debate.
Importantly, she stressed that her resignation should not be interpreted as a rejection of youth engagement in governance or hostility toward the Council. Rather, she framed it as an act of leadership, noting that knowing when to step aside is as important as knowing when to serve.
Ms. Kemokai congratulated the newly appointed member of the National Youth Advisory Council and wished her wisdom and courage in executing her responsibilities. She also expressed appreciation to supporters who offered encouragement and solidarity amid speculation, describing such support as essential to nurturing young leaders.
As Liberia enters a new year, Ms. Kemokai reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to youth development, civic engagement, and democratic participation, while extending wishes of peace, purpose, and renewed national commitment to building a better future for young people across the country.
