Published: January 27, 2026
MONROVIA, Liberia — Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, one of Liberia’s leading civil society organizations, has called on the ruling Unity Party-led administration to provide clearer, publicly verifiable data on government programs and projects following President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s 2026 State of the Nation Address.
The call comes days after President Boakai delivered his annual constitutional report to the National Legislature on Monday, Jan. 26, in line with Article 58 of the 1986 Liberian Constitution, which requires the president to report on the state of the nation and outline priorities for the year ahead.
SONA Outlines Reform Agenda
In a statement issued after the address, Naymote described the president’s speech as a “comprehensive outline” of the government’s reform priorities, anchored in the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development and national renewal.
The organization noted that the address presented a coherent policy direction, with emphasis on macroeconomic stabilization, domestic revenue mobilization, infrastructure development, governance and anti-corruption reforms, and Liberia’s renewed international engagement, including its current role on the United Nations Security Council.
The president also reported that his administration has provided more than 70,000 short-term, medium-term and full employment opportunities for Liberians — a claim Naymote said requires clearer disaggregation and verification.
Progress Acknowledged, Gaps Flagged
While acknowledging areas of progress, Naymote cautioned that significant gaps remain between policy commitments and measurable outcomes.
“While some progress is verifiable, such as domestic revenue growth, improved audit compliance (37%), payroll integrity, and expanded service coverage, Naymote notes that significant gaps remain,” the statement said. “Over 60% of audit recommendations are still unimplemented, and details on spending efficiency, service quality, equity, and sustainability remain limited.”
The CSO stressed that without transparent data, citizens are unable to fully assess the real impact of government spending and reforms.
Infrastructure and Accountability Concerns
Naymote further highlighted the administration’s reporting on infrastructure development, including roads, electricity, ports, airports and digital connectivity, noting the need for a publicly accessible delivery dashboard.
Such a platform, the organization said, should include clear timelines, budgets and accountability measures to allow independent monitoring of progress.
“The true measure of progress will depend on effective implementation, transparency, and tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives,” Naymote emphasized.
Call for Clear Benchmarks and Oversight
According to the organization, key sectors — including governance, anti-corruption, youth employment, justice sector reform and service delivery — require clear timelines, publicly verifiable data and stronger accountability mechanisms.
Naymote also urged the government to clearly distinguish between completed, ongoing and planned projects under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, while strengthening the link between economic growth and job creation.
Constitutional Reform Urged
While welcoming reported reforms in governance and anti-corruption, Naymote stressed that gaps in enforcement, digital transformation and service delivery must be urgently addressed.
“Mr. President, as Liberia enters the third year of your administration, constitutional and electoral reforms must receive urgent priority,” the statement said. “Strengthening democratic institutions and practices is essential, particularly as the current constitution is outdated and no longer fully addresses the needs of our evolving democracy.”
Commitment to Engagement
The organization reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with the government and development partners, saying sustained collaboration is necessary to ensure that policy commitments translate into measurable, inclusive and lasting impact for all Liberians.
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