Boakai Urges National Unity, Religious Tolerance
-At Interfaith Prayer Service
By Amos Harris
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has issued a clarion call for national unity, religious tolerance and inclusive governance, declaring that Liberia belongs to all its citizens regardless of religion, tribe, or regional background.
The Liberian leader made the statement Friday, July 18, 2025 during a special intercessory prayer service held at the Unity Foundation Mosque in the Fish Market Community, Sinkor,
As part of official activities commemorating the country’s 178th Independence Day celebrations, the gathering brought together Muslim and Christian leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, political figures and civil society actors in a joint expression of solidarity for peace, reconciliation and national healing.
“As an individual and as President, I do not think in terms of Muslims or Christians,” President Boakai said. “Liberia belongs to all of us. We are one people, and we must hold together in the interest of peace, unity, and national development.”
The President commended the longstanding peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians in Liberia and praised their joint efforts in supporting his administration’s national agenda.
He emphasized the need for Liberians to rise above religious, tribal and political divisions and unite around a shared goal of national progress.
“We must respect all regions and religions in Liberia,” he stressed. “My vision is to move this country forward in a way that every Liberian feels seen, heard, and included.”
President Boakai noted that both Christians and Muslims are represented in the National Legislature and other government institutions an indication, he noted, of Liberia’s gradual progress toward an inclusive and participatory governance structure.
“We are stronger together,” he said. “Let us continue to walk this journey side by side.”
Abraham K. Zoekai, President of the Liberia National Muslim Youth Assembly and Secretary General of the Muslim Youth Organization of Liberia used the occasion to call for greater inclusion and investment in Liberia’s Muslim youth.
He urged the Boakai administration to increase national budgetary support for Muslim schools and youth development initiatives, and proposed the institution of a national holiday to recognize the contributions and religious significance of Liberia’s Muslim community.
“We strongly believe that if given the opportunity, Muslim youth will meaningfully contribute to the growth and development of Liberia,” Zoekai stated. “We want to be partners in rebuilding our country.”
Also speaking at the event, Senator Amara M. Konneh of Gbarpolu County praised the President’s leadership in promoting reconciliation and urged that those efforts be extended throughout all 15 counties particularly in communities still recovering from the impacts of Liberia’s civil wars.
“Mr. President, we thank you for leading with humility and reconciliation,” Senator Konneh said.
“We urge you to deepen these efforts to reach every corner of our nation, true healing can only come when no region or group is left behind.”
The senator called on all Liberians—regardless of political affiliation—to unite behind President Boakai’s vision of an inclusive Liberia.
Representing the Judiciary, Associate Justice Yussif D. Kaba commended Liberia’s Muslim population for their steadfast commitment to peace, interfaith harmony, and national stability.
“Muslims are peaceful people who believe in unity and coexistence,” Justice Kaba stated.
“Liberia will continue to shine among the nations if we remain united in purpose and heart.”
He credited the Muslim Community for contributing meaningfully to the nation’s social and moral fabric, helping to foster a culture of mutual respect among diverse groups.
The Interfaith Prayer Service ended with a renewed collective pledge by religious leaders, government officials and civil society organizations to promote peace, mutual respect, and national development.
Attendees agreed that Liberia’s progress depends on its people’s ability to live and work together in harmony, transcending the divisions that have historically hindered growth.
In his concluding remarks, President Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a Liberia where all citizens regardless of background have equal opportunity to contribute to nation-building.
“This country belongs to all Liberians,” President Boakai declared. “Let us walk this road together, side by side, and build a better future for generations to come.”
The event marked a poignant moment of unity and reflection as Liberia continues its post-war journey toward reconciliation, inclusion, and sustainable development.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations and civil society actors.