By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
PAYNESVILLE – Liberians across the country observed National Unification Day on Tuesday, a solemn occasion marked by reflection, reconciliation, and renewed hope for national cohesion. In a nationwide address, President Joseph Boakai underscored the significance of the day—not just as a historical milestone, but as a living commitment to building a just, inclusive, and united Liberia.
“Unification Day is not merely a date on our calendar,” the President said. “It is a symbol of our shared determination to rise above our divisions and to forge a society grounded in justice, inclusion, and mutual respect.”
Established in 1960 under the visionary Unification Policy, National Unification Day was intended to bridge longstanding divides within the nation and promote peace and unity among Liberia’s diverse communities. Since the country’s founding in 1847, Liberia has grappled with deep-rooted tensions between settlers and indigenous populations, as well as urban-rural disparities—issues that were compounded during years of civil conflict.
Yet, the President acknowledged, Liberia has also made significant strides in its post-war recovery, including institutional rebuilding and the consolidation of peace. However, he warned that true reconciliation requires more than time—it demands intentional acts of inclusion and understanding.
In a noteworthy development aligning with the spirit of the day, the President celebrated the peaceful resolution of a recent leadership standoff in the lower House of the National Legislature.
He congratulated Honorable Richard Nagbe Koon on his election as Speaker of the House of Representatives and praised former Speaker Cllr. Fonati Koffa for his “laudable decision” that helped bring the impasse to a close.
“This moment marks not only the end of a protracted impasse, but also the beginning of a renewed opportunity to serve our people with honor and urgency,” the President said, urging the new Speaker to lead with inclusiveness and courage.
He also extended his appreciation to Liberians from all walks of life—elders, local leaders, religious authorities, and ordinary citizens—whose collective calls for peace and dialogue helped to resolve the legislative dispute.
In an effort to promote national unity beyond the legislative chambers, the President revealed that he made goodwill phone calls earlier in the day to several prominent figures, including former Presidents Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Manneh Weah, as well as political leaders Benoni Urey and Alexander Cummings.
Religious and traditional institutions such as the Liberia Council of Churches, National Muslim Council, and Council of Chiefs and Elders were also engaged.
“This is our own way of forging the spirit of unification and inclusion,” the President said. “Our doors remain open for any meaningful engagement that will help our hands in nation building.”
