By :Elijah Easter Kaykay
In a candid interview, Ruben Tukue, a man with a tumultuous past rooted in nearly two decades of involvement in the illegal drug trade, has opened up about his journey from desperation to hope.
His story sheds light on the systemic challenges faced by many in Liberia’s underprivileged communities and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive economic reforms.
Tukue, a heavy-duty driver by profession, revealed that his entry into the illicit drug trade was driven not by greed but by frustration with the pervasive unemployment and corruption that characterize the local job market.
“It was hard to get a job,” he said, voice tinged with remorse. “Even when I was qualified, employers would ask for money just to give me a chance. That’s how the system works here — it’s about paying to play”, he explained.
Unable to meet these unethical demands, Tukue found himself caught in a cycle of disappointment. His turning point came when a friend introduced him to the illegal drug trade as a means of survival. “I was desperate. I thought, maybe this is the only way I can survive,” he admitted.
Over the last 17 years, Tukue’s life was deeply intertwined with the dangers and moral compromises of narcotics trafficking.
However, in 2022, he made the pivotal decision to step away from the underground economy and pursue a legitimate livelihood.
Reflecting on his past, Tukue expressed both regret and understanding. “I regret what I did, but I also know that the system pushed me there. Many people are in the same boat, struggling to find honest work,” he stated.
His experience highlights a broader systemic issue — the lack of accessible, fair employment opportunities that could prevent vulnerable individuals from resorting to crime.
Now committed to rebuilding his life, Tukue hopes his story will serve as a catalyst for change.
“We need more fair chances, more support for people who want to do right,” he emphasized. “When the system fails, some turn to crime. We must address the root causes.”
As the nation grapples with issues of youth unemployment and systemic inequality, Tukue’s narrative offers a poignant reminder: behind every statistic is a human being seeking dignity and hope.
His journey underscores the importance of creating opportunities rooted in compassion and justice, emphasizing that redemption is possible when society commits to addressing its foundational challenges.
