(FILES) Outgoing Liberian Vice President Joseph Boakai (C) delivers a statement to media representatives in Monrovia on December 29, 2017, after he was defeated by former footballer George Weah in presidential elections. - Liberia's incumbent president and football legend George Weah conceded defeat on November 17, 2023 evening after nearly complete returns showed opposition leader Joseph Boakai leading with 50.89 percent of the vote. (Photo by SEYLLOU / AFP)
Liberia marked a solemn National Day of Prayer on Wednesday, as President Joseph Boakai led a special service at Effort Baptist Church in Paynesville to honor both the living and deceased victims of the country’s brutal civil wars.
The holiday, declared unexpectedly just days after Independence Day, offered Liberians a moment of reflection amid ongoing challenges.
Addressing the congregation, President Boakai—who also serves as a deacon at the church—called for national healing and unity, while praying against corruption, untimely deaths, and a rising drug epidemic affecting Liberia’s youth.
“Prayer got us this far,” he said.
“Prayers have worked their work, and they continue to work. And so today, we felt that with all that has happened, that we say thanks to God for the light that is bringing the country.
We thank him for having mercy upon us, trying to open the gateway for blessings in this country.”
The National Day of Prayer came three weeks after Boakai’s historic public apology to victims of Liberia’s civil wars—conflicts that claimed an estimated 250,000 lives, displaced millions, and shattered the nation’s infrastructure.
While the holiday was welcomed by many, some critics questioned its timing amid Liberia’s deepening economic crisis.
Attendance at the service was sparse, with empty pews noticeable even as government officials and clergy members participated.
Boakai’s commitment to reconciliation has earned praise from transitional justice experts, especially for his backing of a specialized War and Economic Crimes Court designed to address past abuses.
However, concerns remain about the government’s underfunding of the justice process.
Jallah Barbu, executive director of the court’s overseeing office, has repeatedly highlighted the dire lack of operational funds.
Despite a $2 million pledge from the president in May, the promised funding has yet to materialize.
As Liberia continues its delicate journey toward healing, the National Day of Prayer stands as a poignant reminder of the nation’s enduring scars and hopes for lasting peace.
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