Liberia’s Boakai claims border tensions with Guinea are stabilising
Joseph Boakai tells France 24 that diplomatic channels are open and the situation is “getting under control,” while emphasising Liberia’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Liberian President Joseph Boakai has stated that border tensions with Guinea are being managed, following the deployment of Guinean troops to the shared frontier approximately one month prior. In an interview with France 24, Boakai confirmed direct contact with his Guinean counterpart, Mamady Doumbouya, describing their communications as positive and asserting that the situation is “getting under control.”
The statement comes in the wake of a military build-up along the border, which has raised concerns about potential instability in the region. By highlighting his ongoing dialogue with President Doumbouya, Boakai sought to project an image of diplomatic engagement and de-escalation, countering the perception of imminent conflict that often accompanies such troop movements.
“We’ve been speaking very well,” Boakai said, adding that he had conveyed to his counterpart that the border situation was stabilising. While the specific nature and extent of these communications were not detailed, the President’s assertion of constructive dialogue suggests an effort to maintain institutional stability through direct executive channels.
Boakai also framed the current diplomatic posture within the broader context of Liberia’s historical experience with conflict. He emphasised that the nation has “learned that war is not the way to go,” positioning the current government’s approach as one rooted in the lessons of past instability. This rhetoric underscores a policy focus on avoiding further regional disruption.
“We have learned to live with our neighbours. And we are doing everything possible to show them that we are avoiding conflict,” Boakai stated. The comments reflect a strategic narrative aimed at reassuring both domestic and international observers of Liberia’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, despite the visible military presence on its borders.
The interview also touched upon the broader state of democracy in West Africa, though the primary focus remained on the bilateral relationship with Guinea. Boakai’s remarks serve as an official position from the Liberian executive, aiming to define the border crisis as a managed diplomatic issue rather than an escalating security threat.
