By Amos Harris
Liberia has once again failed the Rule of Law indicator on the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Fiscal Year 2026 Scorecard, deepening concerns about governance, accountability, and public confidence in the country’s justice and security institutions under the administration of President Joseph Boakai. The latest setback comes at a time when opposition political groups, particularly the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), continue to accuse the government of using state security forces to intimidate critics, suppress dissent, and violate the rights of ordinary citizens.
According to the MCC assessment, Liberia recorded a disappointing 44 percent on the Rule of Law indicator, posting a negative score of -0.06 against the peer-group median of 0.00, a result considered a failing mark under MCC standards. The indicator evaluates public confidence in the judiciary and police, including the government’s ability to enforce laws, contracts, and property rights fairly and effectively.
The FY2026 score marks the second consecutive year Liberia has failed the Rule of Law category, highlighting what many observers see as a troubling decline in institutional credibility. In FY2025, Liberia scored 47 percent with a marginal 0.03 score, while FY2024 showed a stronger performance at 59 percent and 0.11. This downward trend has fueled criticism that governance standards and respect for democratic institutions are weakening.
Political commentators and civil society actors have linked the decline to increasing constitutional disputes, allegations of political interference in state institutions, and growing public distrust in the justice system. Critics argue that the government’s handling of protests, opposition activities, and alleged abuses by security officers has damaged Liberia’s democratic image internationally.
In a statement signed by CDC National Chairman Janga A. Kowo, Sr., the opposition accused the Boakai administration of “weaponizing the police” and using the state security apparatus to target political opponents. The CDC warned that continued abuse of power and disregard for citizens’ rights could undermine national stability and erode public confidence in the rule of law.
Furthermore, the CDC-Council of Patriots has petitioned the Ministry of Justice and the Independent National Commission on Human Rights over what it described as nearly 638 unresolved cases involving mysterious deaths, ritualistic killings, and alleged police brutality during the past 16 months. Although the allegations have not been proven in court, the opposition insists the government has failed to provide adequate transparency and accountability regarding the incidents.
International observers have also expressed concern over Liberia’s human rights environment. The United States Department of State’s 2024 Human Rights Report cited credible reports of arbitrary killings and excessive use of force involving some government officials and security personnel. While the report acknowledged that certain investigations and disciplinary actions were taken, it noted persistent concerns surrounding accountability and impunity.
The MCC findings are likely to intensify scrutiny of Liberia’s governance credentials at a time when the country is seeking to strengthen international partnerships and attract foreign investment. Analysts say weak rule of law indicators often discourage investors who rely on independent courts, predictable legal systems, and stable security conditions before committing resources.
Despite the failure in the Rule of Law category, Liberia managed to pass 12 out of 20 MCC indicators and satisfied all three major eligibility requirements for compact consideration. The country performed strongly in areas such as Freedom of Information, where it scored 98 percent, and International Market Access at 93 percent. However, critics argue that progress in economic and governance indicators means little if citizens continue to lose trust in the justice system and law enforcement agencies.
As public debate intensifies, many Liberians are calling for the equal application of the law regardless of social or political status. Citizens say respect for human rights and accountability must remain central to maintaining peace and democracy in the country.
Johnson Herrington, a resident of Capitol Hill in Monrovia, noted that ordinary Liberians are increasingly frustrated by the political atmosphere and the growing involvement of students in partisan activities. According to him, students should not be manipulated by politicians seeking to advance personal agendas. Herrington further lamented that the University of Liberia, once regarded as a center of academic independence and intellectual debate, is gradually becoming a political battleground where vulnerable students are allegedly used for political purposes with little regard for their future.
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