Tubmanburg, Bomi County (December 2, 2025) – During a special Cabinet retreat in Tubmanburg, Bomi County, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. issued a strong caution to Liberia’s national security apparatus, urging them to exercise discipline, restraint, and professionalism in carrying out their duties.
The retreat, which brings together the Vice President, Cabinet ministers, and heads of major agencies, aims to strengthen coordination, review performance, and realign national priorities under the administration’s ARREST framework.
While President Boakai initially praised several ministries and agencies for their “meaningful efforts” in advancing the government’s development agenda, his tone shifted as he addressed concerns about the misuse of authority within certain security sectors.
Directing his attention specifically to officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), President Boakai delivered a sharp warning: “The badge is not a hunting license.”
He emphasized the government’s commitment to combating the nationwide drug crisis but stressed that enforcement officers must not exploit their powers to intimidate, harass, or overstep legal boundaries. The President noted that genuine progress will be seen “when the work speaks for itself,” stating that results, not abuses of authority, must define the fight against drugs. He urged security leaders to correct instances of excessive force and misuse of power immediately.
Shifting focus to future development, President Boakai unveiled several major upcoming projects:
- National Sports Academy: The President announced that partners are ready to begin assessments for the construction of a National Sports Academy in Bong County. This facility is intended to nurture young athletes and significantly strengthen Liberia’s sports infrastructure.
- National Fire Service Relocation: Plans were disclosed to relocate the headquarters of the National Fire and Rescue Service to a more suitable and spacious location. Land authorities and relevant agencies are currently working to secure the site for the new headquarters.
- Omega Market Expansion: President Boakai highlighted a new expansion plan for the Omega Market. The revitalized space will incorporate educational facilities, healthcare services, and other amenities to improve conditions for marketers and the surrounding community.
- Road Infrastructure: Addressing critical infrastructure needs, the President encouraged the Ministry of Public Works to diversify contract awards among multiple companies. This strategy is designed to ensure faster completion of key road corridors, mitigating delays often caused by Liberia’s long rainy season.
The Cabinet retreat marks a critical juncture for the Boakai administration to review first-year performance and solidify a unified strategy moving forward.