By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Monrovia – President Joseph Boakai has paid tribute to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for its instrumental role in restoring peace during the country’s devastating civil war.
Speaking at a national ceremony in Monrovia, the President announced plans to establish a National Memorial dedicated to the victims of the conflict and the courageous peacekeepers of the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) who lost their lives in the pursuit of peace.
A Grateful Nation Remembers
“These were the voices of the voiceless when Liberia had none. These were the hands that helped lift us when we had fallen,” President Boakai said, as he honored the countries and leaders of ECOWAS who intervened during one of the darkest chapters in Liberia’s history.
This year’s Independence Day coincides with the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS, a milestone that Boakai described as a “fitting moment” to recognize the regional bloc’s unwavering commitment to peace, security, and solidarity.
He praised the organization’s leadership for giving Liberia “a second chance” and expressed the nation’s deep appreciation with a heartfelt Liberian phrase: “Your thank-you plenty, yah!”
National Memorial to Mark Sacrifice and Resilience
In a significant announcement, President Boakai revealed that his administration, after months of consultations, is preparing to commission a National Memorial to honor the legacy of the civil war and those who helped end it.
“This memorial will stand in honor of the victims of Liberia’s civil war and in solemn remembrance of the brave men and women of ECOMOG… who gave their lives on Liberian soil for the sake of our peace,” he said.
He emphasized that the monument will not merely be a symbol of remembrance, but a “call to conscience for generations to come” — a powerful reminder that the country’s hard-earned peace was secured through sacrifice and must be preserved through national unity.
A Path Forward: Reconciliation and Hope
The President also used the occasion to reflect on Liberia’s spiritual and historical journey, acknowledging God’s enduring presence “through seasons of trial and triumph.”
He called on Liberians to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation, emphasizing that healing and progress require the nation to “forgive ourselves and one another.”
“It is only through reconciliation that we can fully heal and move forward as one people,” Boakai declared.
A Vision Rooted in Unity
President Boakai’s speech resonated with themes of gratitude, remembrance, and unity. His announcement of a national memorial represents a step toward institutionalizing memory, reckoning with the past, and honoring those who laid the foundation for Liberia’s current stability.
The move is expected to gain broad regional support and strengthen Liberia’s historical and diplomatic ties within West Africa.
As the country continues to rebuild and look to the future, the President’s message was clear: Liberia remembers, Liberia forgives, and Liberia moves forward — together.
