[By: Sampson W Weah]
Fish Town, River Gee County — Sinoe County Senator Crayton “Old Man” Duncan has issued a compelling call to action to students of the William V. S. Tubman University, urging them to become steadfast advocates for accountability, transparency, and the protection of Liberia’s natural resources.
Speaking on Saturday at the 14th Annual Retreat of the Vanguard Student Unification Alliance (SUA) in Fish Town, River Gee County, Senator Duncan warned student leaders against complacency, stressing that Liberia’s progress depends greatly on an informed, courageous, and proactive young generation.
Addressing the participants, the Senator highlighted the pivotal role students play in shaping national discourse and holding leaders accountable.
“Liberia’s problem is not the absence of natural resources,” he said. “Our problem is the consistent fear of challenging foreign actors who come with little but walk away with so much. This cycle must end.”
Senator Duncan expressed deep concern over the long-standing trend of foreign interests dominating Liberia’s resources to the disadvantage of its citizens. He challenged the students to demand leadership that is bold, competent, and capable of negotiating agreements that truly reflect Liberia’s interests.
He noted that many international investors enter the country under the guise of partnership but leave with disproportionate benefits.
“The Executive leadership has often appeared intimidated by individuals who contribute very little yet walk away with significant portions of our national wealth,” he added.
The Senator urged the Vanguard Student Unification Alliance to intensify its advocacy for transparent concession agreements, environmental protection, and equitable development.
He emphasized that student politics must transcend personality-driven contests and short-term alliances. Instead, he said, it should be anchored in policy-driven engagement, constructive criticism, and a firm commitment to national progress.
Established in 2011 at William V. S. Tubman University in Harper, Maryland County, the Vanguard Student Unification Alliance has grown into a leading student movement advocating for student rights and institutional reforms.
In his closing remarks, Senator Duncan reminded the students that Liberia’s current development challenges stem from years of leadership failures across multiple administrations.
“I did not come from Monrovia to give an ordinary political speech,” he stated. “I came because the student community must be at the center of reshaping this nation. Your voices, your activism, and your ideas must drive the change Liberia urgently needs.”
He called on the students to remain united, informed, and unwavering in their pursuit of a Liberia where the interests of its citizens come first.
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