Jefferson T. Koijee, Secretary General of the Congress for Democratic Change, has urged U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene in Liberia’s political crisis under President Joseph Boakai. He criticizes Boakai’s administration for corruption and human rights violations, alleging unconstitutional actions that threaten democracy and stability. Koijee also raises concerns about financial misconduct and the misuse of foreign aid, calling for investigations and support for the Liberian people.
Jefferson T. Koijee, the Secretary General of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), has expressed urgent concerns regarding the political instability in Liberia through an open letter to U.S. President Donald J. Trump. The letter, dated March 3, highlights severe accusations against President Joseph Boakai’s administration, including allegations of undermining democracy and enacting unconstitutional practices.
In his correspondence, Koijee emphasizes a dire situation in Liberia, pointing to widespread corruption, human rights violations, and the degradation of the political environment. He particularly criticizes Boakai for purportedly orchestrating unconstitutional actions, such as the removal of Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa and manipulating the national budget to centralize power.
Moreover, Koijee articulated his concern over reported human rights abuses, noting the deaths of over 100 individuals attributed to police brutality and political persecution. He condemned the absence of accountability for these transgressions, stating that this lack of justice has intensified political and social instability in Liberia.
He further raised alarms about financial misconduct in Boakai’s administration, citing instances of embezzlement of funds intended for development initiatives. This mismanagement, he argues, has deprived ordinary Liberians of access to vital services such as healthcare and clean water, thereby exacerbating the country’s persistent poverty.
Koijee also addressed the misuse of foreign aid, particularly alleging that USAID funds were exploited to manipulate election outcomes in favor of the ruling Unity Party. He has called for comprehensive investigations into how U.S. foreign aid is utilized in Liberia, underscoring that American taxpayer money should not support corrupt governance.
In his appeal, Koijee encouraged President Trump to reassess the planned deportation of approximately 1,563 Liberians from the United States, many of whom fled political repression under Boakai’s regime. He warned that returning these individuals could subject them to potential dangers amidst the continuing political unrest in Liberia.
Additionally, Koijee recognized President Trump’s initiatives to reinstate religious values in the U.S. and praised efforts to foster religious freedom. He emphasized the necessity of defending Christian principles and combating harmful ideologies affecting both the U.S. and Liberia.
Koijee concluded his letter by urging President Trump to support the Liberian populace in their fight against corruption and human rights violations. He called for robust U.S. leadership in aiding Liberia’s aspirations for peace, democracy, and political stability.
In summary, Jefferson T. Koijee’s open letter to President Trump underscores significant distress regarding Liberia’s political climate under President Boakai. He addresses critical issues such as corruption, human rights violations, and the misuse of aid, appealing for U.S. intervention to promote accountability and democracy. Koijee’s request for reconsideration of deportations highlights the peril that individuals may face upon their return amidst ongoing instability.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
