MONROVIA, Liberia Gbarpolu County Senator Amara M. Konneh has called for a comprehensive investigation into alleged links between senior security officials and individuals connected to Liberia’s drug trade, warning that the controversy could have serious implications for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration.
In a strongly worded statement, Senator Konneh questioned the reported presentation of an expensive gift allegedly linked to a drug cartel to the country’s chief drug enforcement official, arguing that such a transaction could undermine the government’s declared fight against illicit drugs.
Konneh said there is “no free lunch,” stressing that any alleged financial or material relationship between security officials and individuals associated with the drug trade must be thoroughly investigated.
The Gbarpolu County Senator called for the arrest and prosecution of current and former senior government officials who may have protected or facilitated the activities of drug traffickers, if evidence establishes their involvement.
He further urged President Boakai to appoint an independent counsel to work alongside foreign investigators currently assisting Liberian authorities with the investigation.
According to Konneh, Liberia’s security sector faces a serious credibility challenge if allegations of cartel influence over officials responsible for combating narcotics trafficking are proven.
He directly appealed to President Boakai, describing the unfolding controversy as “Cocainegate” and comparing its potential political impact to the administration’s previously declared LD$15 billion “Containergate” scandal.
Konneh warned that the issue could become a defining moment for the Boakai presidency and could have broader consequences for Liberia’s future.
The senator’s comments come amid heightened public scrutiny of Liberia’s ongoing fight against drug trafficking and calls for greater transparency, accountability, and independence in investigations involving senior security officials.
