Africa-Press – Liberia. The Reformers National Congress (RNC) has sharply criticized President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), asserting that it lacked concrete action plans and failed to address the pressing socio-economic challenges faced by ordinary Liberians.
Rev. Alexander Kollie, Political Leader of the RNC, said in a statement issued Tuesday following the President’s January 26 address that while the SONA highlighted economic indicators and institutional reforms, it relied heavily on projections, promises, and recycled commitments rather than measurable, actionable steps.
“The President’s State of the Nation Address was detached from reality and appeared more like political theatre than a factual and honest report on the true condition of our nation,” Rev. Kollie said.
According to Kollie, the speech failed to provide clear timelines, benchmarks, or transparent implementation strategies for the initiatives outlined. He emphasized that leadership must be accountable, particularly on matters affecting the daily survival of citizens.
“Liberians do not need illusions. They need honesty. They do not need projections; they need progress,” Kollie said, underscoring the need for concrete action.
A key point of contention for the RNC was the President’s claim that 70,000 jobs had been created. Kollie questioned both the nature and quality of these jobs, calling for independent verification.
“What kinds of jobs are these? Are they permanent or temporary? Do they provide living wages or mere survival-level income?” he asked, noting that many jobs in Liberia remain informal, short-term, and poorly paid, offering little security or dignity to workers.
Kollie also highlighted Liberia’s persistent socio-economic challenges, including widespread poverty, rising unemployment, growing food insecurity, and underperforming public services. He argued that the President’s optimistic presentation masked the daily struggles of citizens.
“The President’s references to figures and reforms are, in my view, window dressing that hides the harsh realities faced by Liberians every day,” he said.
Beyond policy concerns, Rev. Kollie expressed unease over ongoing political tensions and weak engagement with opposition parties under the Boakai administration.
He warned that excluding political stakeholders undermines national unity, social cohesion, and public trust in democratic institutions.
“The lack of inclusive governance diminishes citizens’ confidence and hampers national progress,” he added.
The RNC maintained that while certain achievements were highlighted in the SONA, the speech did not reflect actionable steps necessary for genuine development. Kollie stressed that the administration must move beyond rhetoric to deliver tangible outcomes that improve livelihoods and strengthen institutions.
“Leadership is not about projections or recycled promises—it is about implementing strategies that transform the lives of citizens,” he said.
Rev. Kollie concluded by reaffirming the RNC’s commitment to holding the government accountable.
“As patriots, we will continue to speak truthfully to the Liberian people and demand that their government provides clear action plans to address the country’s pressing challenges,” he said.
The RNC’s critique underscores a growing demand among opposition parties, civil society, and citizens for transparency, measurable outcomes, andeffective governance in Liberia.
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