Lower Margibi – President Boakai message comes after his return from the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly and a week of interaction with Liberians in the United States.
Speaking at an intercessory prayer service in Lower Margibi County, President Boakai blasted the dependency culture where many Liberians rely on remittances from relatives overseas.
According to him, those handouts come with hidden sacrifices that the receivers rarely understand.
The president explained that while countries like the United States may appear appealing with their modern infrastructure and opportunities, the reality for many Liberians abroad is a daily struggle for survival.
“It is important that Liberians focus on building their land instead of chasing other lands,” he declared.
But critics argue that his message glosses over the harsh realities at home.
Liberia faces high unemployment, inflation, and weak social services. The question remains: if Liberians are discouraged from leaving, how will they survive under such difficult conditions?
Political analysts believe the president’s words may have indirectly revealed what he witnessed abroad—that many in the diaspora live far below the glamorous image painted back home. Yet, they argue, this still does not erase the pressing hardships ordinary Liberians face daily.
The Liberia Council of Churches and other civic groups have gone further, accusing members of the Boakai administration of being arrogant, mean, and pompous.