Monrovia, Liberia – President Joseph N. Boakai has called on Liberians to resist the forces that separate them as citizens and to rekindle their sense of patriotism during the memorial ceremony for former Liberian President, William R. Tolbert.
Boakai stated that Liberians should choose peace over retaliation, unity over conflict, and development over stagnation during his remarks on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at the Centennial Pavilion on Ashmun Street in Monrovia. “This event must rekindle a spirit of patriotism in all Liberians. Let’s oppose the things that separate us. Let us choose progress over stagnation, unity over discord, and peace over retaliation,” He said.
He said the Liberian people wanted to create a society where the legacy of past and current leaders is respected, truthful, and accountable. “May this tragic occasion serve as a reminder that history must not be forgotten and that reconciliation must be sought out of conviction rather than expediency,” President Boakai said.
The Liberian leader urged everyone to teach the next generation about President Tolbert’s life and leadership, not just as a previous head of state but also as a representation of dignity, hope, and faith in public service.
He said that former President Tolbert’s principles and unwavering commitment to a more just Liberia were reflected in his policies, which aimed to close gaps, help the underprivileged, and increase opportunities. The former president’s vision for the country’s growth, he said, was based on the conviction that justice and inclusiveness must become the cornerstones of our democracy if Liberia to prosper.
President Boakai clarified that the memorial is an act of national conscience rather than merely a ceremonial gesture, given the untimely death of former President Tolbert decades ago. “It is an opportunity to restore dignity, to recognize past wrongs, and to reaffirm our shared commitment to justice, truth, and reconciliation,” he continued.
He added that Liberians cannot consider the moment of the former president without taking into account the prolonged chain of suffering that has shaped the country’s path. “Liberia has suffered from the scars of history, from the country’s founding and the unresolved tensions of the past, to the violent transitions of governments, and the tragic loss of nearly two hundred fifty thousand lives during our brutal civil conflict,” Boakai stated.
The President offered the Tolbert family the sincere condolence. He stated that although Tolbert served the country with distinction, the former president’s life was unquestionably honorable and generous. President Boakai asked the late president’s family to continue paying tribute to him by actively promoting national healing and unity.
Photo credit: Executive Mansion
