By: Emmanuel wise Jipoh
President Joseph Nyumah Boakai has passed the Anti-Drugs Test, as part of his commitment to tackling drug abuse here.
The President also assured Liberians about his government’s commitment to vigorously address substance abuse in the country with urgency, reaffirming his commitment to leading a drug-free state.
President Boakai also said taking the drugs test is in keeping with his commitment to lead by example.
The President and Vice President Jeremiah Koung on Wednesday led a team of government officials to take the Anti-Drugs test after Mr. Boakai declared drugs a national health emergency during his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) before the 55th Legislature.
He told reporters that the action was in fulfillment of his promise to lead the Anti-Drugs campaign by being the first person along with his Vice President to take the test which will boost the fight against substance abuse.
The test was conducted by the Wellness Partners Clinic here, a local health facility that reports the President and his Vice President tested negative and showed no trace of illegal substances in their bodies.
Dr. Nicole, Chief Executive Officer of the Wellness Partners Clinic, tested President Boakai along with other health practitioners and disclosed that all tests conducted on the President and Vice President Koung for THC Marijuana, Cocaine, Caffeine, Nicotine (tobacco) among other stimulants proved negative.
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Speaking shortly after testing, President Boakai said this demonstrates Liberia’s readiness to combat drug abuse and reiterated call to his officials to follow suit.
Mr. Boakai stressed that the drug war is far from over, saying “My combat against drugs starts now, with our commitment and seriousness to lead by example; I want to assure Liberians about our commitment and urge other officials to follow in our path, as we reaffirm our obligation to making Liberia a drug-free nation.”
He commanded health professionals for their commitment in conducting his test, while acknowledging the difficulties in tackling such issue, but urged Liberians to exercise patience as his government is committed to working in the interest of the people to deliver a better Liberia. Editing by Jonathan Browne
