By: Joseph Kerkula
The Political Leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), Mr. Alexander B. Cummings, has challenged President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s assertion that Liberia is experiencing economic recovery, arguing that the realities faced by ordinary Liberians do not support the government’s claims.
Responding to President Boakai’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered on Tuesday, Cummings said that while he respects the President and the Office he holds, macroeconomic indicators alone cannot define national progress.
“Macroeconomic stability is not the same as microeconomic survival,” Cummings said, noting that hunger, unemployment, and poverty remain widespread across the country.
He cited Liberia’s ranking of 112th out of 123 countries on the Global Hunger Index, pointing out that nearly two in five Liberians lack adequate access to food.
According to Cummings, genuine national recovery should be measured by improved living standards rather than by economic growth figures alone.
Although the government has celebrated a record national budget of approximately US$1.2 billion, Cummings described the budget as a “moral document” that currently prioritizes the political elite over the needs of ordinary citizens.
He raised concerns about increased allocations to the Legislature and security institutions while public hospitals, schools, and social services remain underfunded.
As an alternative approach, Cummings proposed capping wasteful government spending, redirecting more resources toward health and education, and strengthening transparency through county-level budget reporting.
Cummings also criticized the reduction in funding for agriculture, despite its recognition as a core pillar of the government’s ARREST Agenda.
He called for allocating at least 10 percent of the national budget to agriculture, investing in agro-processing facilities, and rehabilitating feeder roads to improve farmers’ access to markets.
The ANC political leader highlighted the role of women in Liberia’s economy, particularly market women who own a significant share of small businesses, he proposed the creation of a national micro-loan scheme and tougher judicial action against sexual and gender-based violence.
On youth development, Cummings stressed the need to move beyond short-term “hustle” jobs, advocating for a National Youth Service Program and expanded technical and vocational education across all counties to promote sustainable employment.
While expressing support for decentralization, Cummings argued that real progress requires devolving both authority and financial resources to county governments.
He further called for increased investment in renewable energy, particularly solar mini-grids, to support schools, clinics, and small businesses nationwide.
According to him, indictments alone are insufficient to fight corruption on governance and accountability.
He proposed the establishment of special anti-corruption courts, aggressive asset recovery efforts, and full independence for integrity institutions to prevent political interference.
Cummings has further indicated that leadership should be judged by tangible outcomes, including reduced hunger, safer communities, and dignified employment opportunities.
Describing the ANC’s “People’s Alternative” as a framework for inclusive and people-centered governance.
“The time for empty promises is over,” Cummings said. “The time for Liberia to rise is now.”
