The political leader of the opposition Alternative National Congress (ANC), has declared Liberia’s growing drug crisis as “troubling.”
Alexander B. Cummings, made the statement during a visit to the West Point community in District #7, one of Monrovia’s most vulnerable areas.
Cummings told residents, many of whom are young people struggling with addiction, that there was the need for urgent and decisive action to tackle a threat to the nation future.
“This crisis is destroying our future,” Cummings told the crowd, noting: “Government must do more in the fight against the drugs menace. We cannot only arrest the small users and petty dealers; we must go after the big fishes bringing drugs into our country.”
Cummings said his visit was not political, but a demonstration of solidarity with young Liberians caught in the grip of substance abuse.
He said the fight against drugs requires both government intervention, and community action.
“While it is the responsibility of government to protect its citizens, we as a people, must also play our part,” he said.
“I am joining this fight, and together, we will eradicate this crisis from our beloved country.”
During the visit, ANC Youth Congress, distributed food and clothing to residents, as part of a broader commitment to supporting communities impacted by drug abuse and poverty.
West Point, a densely populated coastal slum, is home to thousands of at-risk youth (Zogos), and has long struggled with poor living conditions, unemployment and limited access to social services.
Drug addiction, particularly among the youthful population, has become a growing concern in recent years.
Cummings’ presence was received warmly by many residents, some of whom described the visit as a rare show of compassion and concern from a national political figure.
“We feel seen,” said one community member. “Most people don’t come here unless it is campaign season. But today, we felt heard by the presence of Mr. Cummings.”
By highlighting the drug issue in West Point, Cummings has positioned himself, not only as a political leader, but also as an advocate for youth and marginalized communities.
He joins a growing number of voices that have called for a more coordinated and sustained national response to country’s drug crisis, including investment in prevention, rehabilitation, and law enforcement efforts.
His visit comes amid increased public concern over the proliferation of narcotics, particularly synthetic drugs like “Kush and tramadol,” which are widely available and often used by young people in poor urban communities.
Cummings has pledged to remain actively involved in advocacy and support efforts, stating that Liberia must treat the drug crisis with the urgency it deserves.