MONROVIA, Liberia – Alternative National Congress (ANC) Political Leader Alexander B. Cummings has used Liberia’s 179th Independence Anniversary to call for sweeping institutional reforms, arguing that the country’s future depends on building strong, transparent and accountable public institutions.
In his Independence Day message, Cummings congratulated Liberians on the historic milestone but said the occasion should serve not only as a celebration of the nation’s independence, but also as a moment of honest reflection on the country’s governance challenges.
According to him, Liberia was founded on the ideals of liberty, justice and equal opportunity, yet many citizens continue to struggle with poverty, unemployment and limited economic opportunities.
Cummings maintained that the country’s greatest challenge is the weakness of its institutions, which he said has created an environment where corruption, drug trafficking and poor governance continue to flourish.
He pointed to recent large-scale cocaine seizures, allegations involving law enforcement officers, illegal mining activities that have heightened tensions along the Liberia-Guinea border, and concerns over transparency in major public projects as evidence of systemic governance failures rather than isolated incidents.
“The problem is not just the scandals we see; it is the systems that allow them to happen,” Cummings said, stressing that Liberia needs institutions capable of enforcing the law fairly and holding all citizens accountable regardless of status or political influence.
The ANC leader called for an independent judiciary, professional and accountable security institutions, empowered anti-corruption agencies, and transparent government systems to ensure public resources are used for national development rather than private enrichment.
He argued that strengthening public institutions is essential to protecting democracy, restoring public trust and creating opportunities for future generations.
Cummings also urged Liberians to rise above political, tribal and regional divisions, emphasizing that national unity is critical to building a more prosperous and accountable state.
Concluding his message, he called on citizens to demand responsible leadership and work collectively toward a Liberia where governance serves the interests of all its people.
“Together, let us demand accountability, repair our broken systems, and build a nation where governance truly serves the people,” he said.
