“We Will Find You, We Will Deal with You” | News

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has issued a strong warning to individuals involved in narcotics trafficking, organized crime, and corruption, declaring that his administration will pursue anyone undermining Liberia’s security and future, regardless of their status, wealth, or influence.

Speaking Thursday, August 6, 2026, at the Executive Mansion during the commissioning ceremony of newly appointed judges and court marshals, President Boakai said illegal drugs and criminal networks represent a direct threat to Liberia’s young people, institutions, economy, and national security.

The President used the occasion to challenge the newly commissioned judicial officers to uphold justice with integrity, independence, and urgency, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

“Today marks an important milestone in our collective effort to strengthen the institutions upon which our democracy rests,” President Boakai said.

“It is my distinct honor to commission a new cadre of judges and court marshals who have been entrusted with one of the most sacred responsibilities in any democratic society: the fair, impartial, and faithful administration of justice.”

He reminded the judges and court marshals that their appointments represent a public trust rather than personal privilege.

“Every decision you make, every case you hear, and every action you take will either strengthen or weaken the confidence of the Liberian people in our justice system,” he warned.

President Boakai emphasized that the Judiciary remains one of the three independent branches of government and plays a critical role in maintaining democracy, economic stability, and public confidence.

“A nation cannot prosper where the rule of law is weak. Investors lose confidence. Citizens lose hope. Criminals become emboldened. Institutions deteriorate,” he said.

The President described the proliferation of illegal drugs, organized crime, and corruption as among the greatest threats confronting Liberia.

He said criminal activities are not merely law enforcement concerns but attacks on Liberia’s future that threaten young people, legitimate businesses, national security, and the country’s international reputation.

“My administration has therefore taken deliberate and intentional actions to confront these challenges head-on,” Boakai said.

He praised members of the Joint Security for their efforts in combating narcotics trafficking and other criminal activities, describing their work as courageous and patriotic.

“Day and night, often under difficult conditions, facing enormous pressure, intimidation, and personal risks, they have remained steadfast in protecting our borders, enforcing our laws, and safeguarding our citizens,” he said.

The President said recent arrests, suspensions, dismissals, and investigations involving individuals connected to narcotics trafficking and other crimes were not politically motivated but part of a broader national effort to defend Liberia’s institutions.

“They are not isolated actions. They are not politically motivated. Nor are they intended to create headlines,” he said.

“They represent a determined national effort to defend the Liberian people, protect our institutions, dismantle criminal cartels, and restore confidence in the rule of law.”

In a direct message to drug traffickers and criminal actors, President Boakai issued a stern warning.

“To those who seek to bring illegal drugs into Liberia to destroy the lives of our young people, hear me today,” he said. “To those who believe Liberia can be used as a transit point for international narcotics trafficking, hear me well.

“To those who believe their position, influence, wealth, or authority places them beyond the reach of justice, clean your ears and hear me today, well, well, and be warned!”

“We will identify you! We will pursue you! We will find you! And we will deal with you in accordance with the law. There will be no sacred cows in this Joseph Nyuma Boakai Administration.”

The President stressed that no individual would be protected because of political connections, public office, business interests, family ties, or social status.

“Whether you are a government official, a law enforcement officer, a businessman, a customs broker, or an ordinary citizen, the law must apply equally to everyone,” he declared.

President Boakai said the fight against crime cannot succeed without an effective and independent Judiciary.

He urged judges to ensure that courts do not become places where criminals repeatedly escape accountability because of delays.

“The old saying reminds us that the wheels of justice turn slowly. Perhaps they do. But they must never turn so slowly that our courts become revolving doors through which criminals repeatedly pass without consequence,” he said.

The President disclosed that he had recently discussed judicial reforms with Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay Sr., who briefed him on ongoing efforts to improve the justice system.

“Mr. Chief Justice, you have my support in your reform efforts,” Boakai said.

He, however, emphasized that support for reform does not mean interference with judicial independence.

“This is not a call for predetermined outcomes. It is not an invitation to compromise judicial independence. On the contrary, judicial independence is indispensable to democracy and must always be protected,” he said.

But he added that independence must be accompanied by responsibility, professionalism, and integrity.

“It demands diligence. It demands professionalism. It demands integrity. The patriotic interest of Liberia should always be foremost in our minds,” he said.

Addressing the newly commissioned judges, President Boakai urged them to measure their success not only by the number of cases handled but by the trust they build among citizens.

“Let your courtrooms be places where justice is accessible, where fairness prevails, and where every citizen, regardless of means or influence, believes that the law will be applied equally,” he said.

He also reminded court marshals of their important role in ensuring the effective functioning of the justice system.

“The orderly functioning of our courts depends upon your professionalism, discipline, and commitment to enforcing the lawful orders of the courts with dignity and impartiality,” he told them.

President Boakai concluded by congratulating the newly commissioned officials and wishing them wisdom, courage, humility, and divine guidance in carrying out their responsibilities.