Monrovia, Liberia – The 178th Independence Day orator has called on President Joseph N. Boakai to fire underperforming government officials and to cease suspending them. According to him, the Boaki-Koung government’s practice of suspending officials without firing them has become more and more popular.
Speaking on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Centennial Pavilion in Monrovia, Rev. Emmett Dunn said, the Boakai administration is characterized by integrity and humility, and that his dedication has given the nation’s politics a new perspective. Rev. Dunn advised the Liberian leader to challenge the status quo, empower the next generation, lead with courage, transparency, and justice, and to dismiss corrupt officials and non-performing officials.
He explained that a second term in the Boakai administration is not certain, and that the Liberian leader is being held accountable for clearing up the mess that has been made. For the thousands of people that stood in the rain for him, as well as for Liberians in general who are going through a variety of difficulties and hardships, Rev. Dunn said, the cleanup will be completed when corrupt and lazy officials are dismissed.
However, he urged Liberians to observe the day as a day of dedication rather than a yearly tradition. The 178th orator pointed out that Liberia has witnessed the destructive power of divisiveness, noting that, now is the moment to decide what unity might create. He informed the audience that Liberia cannot advance if its citizens’ allegiance is based on party politics, tribalism, or self-interest.
“We must put the country first. A ball of personalities above politics evolved profit. Putting Liberia first means telling the truth, even when it is uncomfortable. Therefore, we must reject corruption, regardless of who benefits. It starts with acknowledging that the future of our nation rests with all of us, not just a select few, and it entails Mr. President demanding results from people you have placed in positions of trust.”
The speaker called on the governing elite to treat the opposition with respect rather than demonizing them, stating that “the function of political opposition democracy is not a spectator sport.” He asserted that the ongoing interchange of ideas and clash of ideals for the common good are the hallmarks of any democracy with a single dominant party. Rev. Dunn clarified that opposition groups are a component of the accountability apparatus rather than the state’s enemy.
“A country will plunge into darkness when its opposition voices are silenced.Instead of fearing disagreement, we should fear indifference. We should be dependent of one another, but we should also have a great regard for one another,” he remarked.
According to him, Liberia need both a strong administration and a powerful opposition. “Together, we will created the propelling forces that support the ship of democracy’s aims, and as of right now, we are still standing.”
Photo credit: Executive Mansion
