01/01/2026
For Immediate Release!!
Alphia Faith Kemokai Clarifies Resignation from Presidentโs National Youth Advisory Board.
"Following the recent public announcement of my resignation from the National Youth Advisory Council to the President of Liberia, there has been public interest and commentary. I believe it is important to offer clarity calmly, honestly, and with respect.
For the record, I was appointed to the National Youth Advisory Council to His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia, on October 11, 2024, and I formally submitted my resignation in October 2025. My resignation was not reactive. It was a considered decision made in good faith and with intention. To ensure continuity and a smooth transition, my resignation took effect on December 31, 2025, allowing sufficient time for the appointment of a suitable replacement and the uninterrupted work of the Council.
I accepted the appointment wholeheartedly and with a deep sense of responsibility, and I equally resigned wholeheartedly, guided by my personal values and long standing commitment to meaningful youth participation.
The National Youth Advisory Council represents an important step toward addressing the representation gap of young people at high level decision making tables. Efforts to create space for youth voices in governance are necessary and should be strengthened. I remain grateful to the President and all stakeholders who made the establishment of the Council possible.
Currently, I serve as the Program Manager of the Young Political Leadership School Africa, a leadership, elections, and governance training program. I work across politics, governance, and leadership development, engaging young people both within and outside Liberia. This work requires collaboration across diverse political contexts and perspectives. In that regard, I wish to clearly state that I am not a member of any political party, nor have I ever been. My professional engagement cuts across political lines, including CDC, UP, CMC, ANC, LP, and others in Liberia, as well as with actors beyond its borders. As a youth development practitioner, neutrality, integrity, and trust are central to my work. If I ever decide to engage in partisan politics, it will be done openly and transparently, not from behind civil society.
I am also aware of false claims that linked my resignation to political party influence. These allegations were unfounded, addressed through legal means, and have since been retracted with an apology. I appreciate responsible journalism and the many voices that stood for truth and fairness.
My resignation should not be read as a rejection of youth engagement in governance, nor as hostility toward the Council or any institution. Leadership also means knowing when to step aside and allow others to contribute. In a region where power is often held too tightly and for too long, I take pride in embracing both service and transition.
I have had the experience of advocating for young people within government and from outside government, and those lessons will shape my continued work. My commitment to youth development, civic engagement, and democratic participation remains firm.
A Note of Gratitude
I would like to sincerely thank the many people who have spoken up, reached out, and stood in support of the work I do. I have seen your messages, comments, and thoughtful reflections, and I do not take them lightly.
An enabling environment, one where young leaders are supported, believed in, and allowed to grow, is essential for leadership development. To everyone who chose encouragement over speculation and principle over noise, thank you. Your solidarity matters.
I congratulate the new member of the National Youth Advisory Council and wish her wisdom and courage in her service.
As we step into a new year, I wish everyone peace, purpose, and continued commitment to building a better future for our country and our young people. Happy New Year"
