Monrovia – President Joseph Boakai has reportedly refuted claims that his use of private jets has incurred costs to the Liberian government.
In a conversation with former BBC correspondent and current Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) Board Member Jonathan Paye-Layleh, the President clarified on Wednesday night that his flights on private jets since assuming office have been facilitated by fellow heads of state and personal friends, with no expense borne by Liberia. This statement, first shared by Paye-Layleh on social media, was later reposted by President Boakai’s legal advisor, Bushuben Keita.
“I have not spent a single cent on the use of private jets,” President Boakai reportedly told Paye-Layleh, according to the post.
The statement comes amid growing public scrutiny over the President’s use of private aircraft, a topic that has also fueled criticism from the opposition. The debate mirrors concerns raised during the tenure of former President George Weah, whose use of private jets drew sharp censure from opposition figures, including then-Senator Abraham Darius Dillon.
Senator Dillon recently issued a public apology to former President Weah, admitting that his earlier criticism of Weah’s private jet use was misguided. Speaking on the “OK Conversation” program this week, Dillon expressed regret for what he called “unfounded” accusations during the 2023 opposition campaign.
“We did not understand the constraints and reasons for using private jets,” Dillon said. “I want to publicly apologize to President Weah for ranting loosely from an uninformed position.” He also emphasized the necessity of private jets in navigating the logistical challenges faced by African leaders and proposed that Liberia acquire a presidential aircraft for official use.
However, Paye-Layleh’s post has sparked questions about compliance with Liberia’s National Code of Conduct for Public Officials and Employees, enacted in 2014. Section 9.6 of the code explicitly prohibits public officials from soliciting or accepting gifts, favors, or other benefits in exchange for the performance or non-performance of their duties. Critics argue that the acceptance of private jet travel, even if offered by foreign heads of state or friends, could be interpreted as a violation of this law.
“This is a serious governance issue,” said political analyst Edwin Nimely. “Even if there is no monetary cost to Liberia, the perception of impropriety and potential conflicts of interest cannot be ignored.”
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