FLASHBACK: Gus Saywala in photo with UP Standard Bearer, President Joseph Boakai
By Augustine Octavius, augustineoctavius@gmail.com
The National Youth Congress of the Unity Party has expressed dismay and condemned the actions of a few individuals within the Executive Mansion who are deliberately obstructing the appointment of Gus Saywala, the duly recognized Youth Leader of the Unity Party, USA/Canada Chapter.
Recently, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, used his constitutional prerogative and made a decision to nominate Gus Saywala as Director General for Administration at the Liberia National Tourism Authority.
But the National Youth Congress of U, in a press statement, it has come to its attention that certain unelected or overzealous individuals within the Executive Mansion are actively working to “step on” or undermine this lawful appointment.
The statement added that these actions are not only disrespectful to Saywala but constitute a direct affront to the authority and decision-making power of the President.
The National Youth Congress of the UP unequivocally fully endorsed President Boakai’s right to nominate and appoint individuals he deems fit for positions within his administration.
UP government came to power over two years ago in January 2024, after winning the October 2023 presidential election against the then ruling CDC party of former President George Weah. Boakai and his UP ran a campaign on the mantra that “there will be no business as usual”, vowing to rescue Liberians.
The UP National Youth Congress claimed that Gus Saywala has demonstrated loyalty and competence, and his nomination is meritorious.
“We strongly condemn the conduct of any staff member or advisor within the Executive Mansion who is attempting to reverse, delay, or sabotage this appointment,” the statement said; adding: “Such behavior creates disunity, insubordination, and inefficiency within the government.”
The UP National Youth Congress strongly warned those involved in the Office of the President to immediately cease and desist from undermining President Boakai’s constitutional responsibilities.
The National Youth Congress of the UP said the power of appointment is vested solely in the President, subject to relevant confirmation processes, and not in the whims of aides, junior staff, or unofficial kingmakers.
“Any further attempts to override or subvert the President’s decision will be viewed as a calculated act of sabotage against the Unity Party government and its leadership.”
The UP National Youth Congress called on the Chief of Staff and the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs to investigate this interference and ensure that the President’s directive regarding Gus Saywala’s nomination is respected and executed without delay.
The UP National Youth Congress maintained that it remains unwavering in its support for President Boakai’s vision for Liberia.
“However,” the statement went on, “we will not remain silent when elements within the President’s own house work to weaken his authority and deny qualified young people the opportunity to serve.”
According to the youth, no individual, regardless of their proximity to the presidency, has the right to overturn the President’s lawful decisions.
The press statement, signed by Evan Tumu, the National Secretary General of the National Youth congress, indicated that those engaged in these acts should desist immediately or face the political consequences of working against the Unity Party and its standard-bearer.