Published: July 26, 2025
MONROVIA – MOVEE political leader Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah, Sr. used Liberia’s 178th Independence Day to criticize the Boakai administration for what he called “relentless political witch-hunting” and persecution of opponents, warning that the country risks undermining its democratic foundations if justice remains biased.
In a strongly worded statement released Saturday, Kemayah, the former Foreign Affairs Minister under the Weah administration and the standard bearer of the Movement for Economic Empowerment (MOVEE), called for a comprehensive national shift toward unity, fair justice, and inclusive governance. He asserted that the current political climate is dangerously diverging from the principles outlined in the July 26, 1847, Declaration of Independence.
“We must end the relentless political witch-hunting and persecution because of political association,” Kemayah said. “We must choose equal and impartial justice for all over selective justice.”
The opposition figure’s remarks were made during the Independence Day observance themed “One People, One Destiny: Healing the Past, Building the Future,” which Kemayah said highlights the country’s political crossroads. Without naming names, he accused the government of marginalizing dissenting voices and fueling division through selective justice and use of state power.
His message appeared to echo growing discontent among opposition and civil society voices who have accused the Boakai-led administration of using anti-corruption and reform campaigns to sideline political opponents while protecting allies.
“Let this Independence Day imbue in us the need to choose unity over division, reconciliation over resentment, peace over chaos… political tolerance over political intolerance, and freedom of speech over suppression,” Kemayah added.
Kemayah also used the occasion to rally his party faithful, thanking members of the “Genuine New Insurmountable Movement for Economic Empowerment – The Orange Revolution” for their continued support and commitment. He expressed gratitude for the trust reposed in him and pledged to lead with humility and determination.
“The trust you have placed in me is an honor I carry with humility and resolve,” he said. “Let us work side by side to sustain the gains our party is making within the country’s political landscape.”
Asserting that Liberia remains mired in “extraordinary trials and tribulations,” Kemayah called on Liberians to resist complacency and instead engage in sober reflection about the country’s trajectory. He urged citizens to hold tightly to the foundational ideals of democracy, transparency, rule of law, and equal opportunity.
“We must prioritize the rights and well-being of all Liberians, irrespective of political, religious, social, economic, ethnic, and geographic background,” he said.
He argue that the rule of law is being weaponized for political ends.
“The liberties we should have been enjoying today are being undermined,” Kemayah said. “But with renewed courage and collective resolve, we can still redeem Liberia for a better future.”
Discussion about this post