Jefferson T. Koijee, Secretary General of the CDC, has urged U.S. President Trump to intervene in Liberia’s political crisis under President Joseph Boakai. He accused Boakai of corruption, human rights violations, and undermining democracy while highlighting the need for accountability and support for the Liberian people. Additionally, Koijee expressed concerns about the deportation of Liberians from the U.S. and the misuse of foreign aid.
In an open letter dated March 3, 2020, Jefferson T. Koijee, Secretary General of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), appealed to U.S. President Donald J. Trump to intervene in the ongoing political turmoil in Liberia. Koijee criticized President Joseph Boakai’s administration, asserting that it has engaged in unconstitutional practices that undermine the nation’s democracy.
Koijee described serious issues under Boakai’s leadership, citing rampant corruption, human rights violations, and political destabilization as major concerns. He specifically accused Boakai of orchestrating unconstitutional actions to strengthen his power, including the removal of Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa and manipulation of the national budget, which he claims has eroded democratic institutions in Liberia.
He further highlighted alarming instances of human rights abuses, including the deaths of over 100 individuals within a year due to police brutality and state-sponsored violence. Koijee condemned the lack of accountability for such abuses, arguing that it has heightened political and social instability in the country.
Koijee also alleged significant financial corruption within the Boakai administration, claiming millions intended for development had been embezzled. He cited specific instances of financial misconduct, particularly at the National Oil Company of Liberia, emphasizing that mismanagement has deprived Liberians of basic services, exacerbating poverty.
In his letter, Koijee raised concerns over foreign aid misuse, alleging that USAID funds were directed to manipulate elections favoring the ruling Unity Party. He called for a thorough investigation into U.S. foreign aid usage, asserting that taxpayer funds should not support a corrupt regime.
Koijee praised Elon Musk and the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency for their focus on investigating corruption within foreign aid programs. He urged President Trump to take a firm stance against the improper use of U.S. aid and advocate for transparency in Liberia’s governance.
Moreover, Koijee implored Trump to reconsider the deportation of over 1,500 Liberians residing in the U.S., many of whom fled political persecution. He warned that their return could put them in danger amidst the current volatile political climate in Liberia.
Koijee expressed appreciation for Trump’s initiatives to restore religious values in America, particularly through the Faith Advisory Council, emphasizing the importance of upholding Christian principles in both the U.S. and Liberia. He called on Trump to stand with the Liberian people against corruption and human rights violations and to strengthen U.S. support for Liberia’s democratic journey.
In conclusion, Jefferson T. Koijee’s letter to President Trump highlights the pressing political crisis in Liberia under Joseph Boakai’s administration. By addressing accusations of corruption and human rights abuses, Koijee emphasizes the need for U.S. intervention to uphold democracy and provide necessary support. His appeals also extend to the issue of deportation and the misuse of U.S. foreign aid, stressing the urgency for action. Koijee’s call for transparency and accountability reflects broader concerns for Liberians’ safety and governance.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
