LIBERIA: Liberian Official Defends Boakai Administration’s Diplomatic Engagement With Russia

The Deputy Minister for Public Affairs in the Boakai-Koung administration, Anthony Kesselly,  has responded to recent criticisms from the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) over Liberia’s diplomatic engagement with Russia.

 

Deputy Minister Kesselly, a former Senior Policy Specialist in the Office of the Vice President, highlighted that similar diplomatic efforts were made under the CDC’s own administration during the Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi in 2019.

 

“As some notorious CDC noisemakers dabble in tabata [idle chatter] about negative repercussions to arise from the JNB government’s engagement with the Russian Federation at the Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi, Russia, let me just remind them of this historic fact,” Deputy Minister Kesselly wrote.

 

He pointed out that in 2019, the CDC administration sent a high-ranking delegation led by then-Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor to the same summit in Sochi.

 

Deputy Minister Kesselly added that he himself was part of the 2019 delegation under Vice President Howard Taylor, countering the CDC’s recent narrative that Liberia’s engagement with Russia marks a significant break from the country’s traditional foreign policy.

 

His remarks included a flashback to photos of the 2019 delegation to underscore the continuity in Liberia’s diplomatic initiatives.

 

The CDC, however, has raised strong objections to President Joseph Boakai’s current plans to expand Liberia’s relationship with Russia.

 

Speaking at a press conference in Congo Town on November 12, 2024, CDC National Secretary General Jefferson Koijee argued that the Boakai administration’s outreach to Russia could strain Liberia’s historic alliance with the United States, which has been a close ally and supporter of Liberia for many decades.

 

Mr. Koijee referred to the Boakai administration’s recent announcement of plans to open a Liberian embassy in Russia as a “misguided” foreign policy shift that could jeopardize Liberia’s strategic ties with the U.S.

 

According to Mr. Koijee, the CDC considers the U.S. to be Liberia’s “most loyal and committed ally,” and any deeper relationship with Russia could disrupt the benefits Liberia enjoys through this long-standing partnership.

 

“This move is unacceptable,” Mr. Koijee stated firmly. “America has stood by Liberia through thick and thin. To engage with a rival superpower without due consideration for our history and strategic interests’ risks undermining everything we have built with the United States.”

 

He expressed worry that increased engagement with Russia might lead to reduced U.S. support for Liberia, especially in the areas of economic aid and security.

 

Mr. Koijee added that the CDC is not opposed to international diplomacy but stressed that Liberia’s foreign policy has traditionally been rooted in loyalty and mutual benefits with Western nations, particularly the U.S.

 

He urged the Boakai’s administration to rethink its approach and realign with Liberia’s historical alliances, which he argued are vital for the nation’s stability and growth.

 

Despite the CDC’s concerns, the Boakai administration officials have defended the engagement with Russia as a step toward diversifying Liberia’s diplomatic partnerships.

 

They argue that establishing relations with multiple global powers is critical for the country’s development and resilience in a competitive global landscape.

 

The CDC, meanwhile, contends that maintaining a strong, exclusive relationship with the U.S. should remain a cornerstone of Liberia’s foreign policy.

 

Mr. Koijee suggested that deepening ties with Russia could complicate Liberia’s position in the geopolitical arena and might not align with the interests of the Liberian people, who have benefited from U.S. investments in health, education, and security.

 

Mr. Koijee hinted that the CDC might take action if the Boakai’s  administration does not reconsider its plans with Russia, although he did not specify what steps would be taken.

 

“If this administration does not address this issue, we will have no choice but to act in defense of our national interest,” he warned, reinforcing the CDC’s commitment to protecting Liberia’s traditional alliances.

 

Liberia’s new interest in Russia reflects a broader trend in African diplomacy, where many nations are seeking diversified international relationships.

 

Analysts suggest that as African nations navigate shifting global dynamics, some are turning to alternative alliances that promise new economic opportunities.

 

Nevertheless, the CDC remains cautious, warning that Liberia’s engagement with Russia could alienate critical allies in the West.

 

As diplomatic exchanges between Liberia and Russia continue, political observers in Liberia are closely watching how the Boakai’s  administration balances this new relationship with the nation’s established ties.

 

The CDC’s criticisms have also reignited discussions within the public about Liberia’s foreign policy goals, priorities, and the possible impacts on the nation’s future.

 

The Unity Party-led  government has not yet officially responded to the CDC’s concerns, but political analysts suggest that the issue could shape public opinion about the Boakai administration’s approach to foreign affairs.

 

Some believe the administration will need to clarify its stance to reassure Liberians and to maintain support for its broader diplomatic strategy.

 

With U.S.-Russia relations currently strained, Washington has kept a close eye on Russia’s growing influence in Africa.

 

Any perceived shift in Liberia’s diplomatic loyalties could potentially draw scrutiny from American policymakers, who have prioritized strengthening ties with African nations and countering Russian influence on the continent.

 

In recent years, the U.S. has been a vital contributor to Liberia’s post-conflict recovery, providing significant investments in critical sectors.

 

Mr. Koijee argued that Liberia’s development remains closely tied to these partnerships, suggesting that a pivot toward Russia could divert the country from its “historical path of progress.”

 

As tensions escalate around the Unity Party’s foreign policy direction, citizens are observing the unfolding debate. Many wonder how the Boakai administration will address the CDC’s concerns while potentially reshaping Liberia’s global alliances.

 

The government’s response will likely influence both domestic support and international relations, determining how Liberia positions itself in an increasingly multipolar world.