Liberia Rejects Trump's English Language Surprise After White House Meeting

During a White House summit with West African leaders, President Donald Trump expressed surprise at Liberian President Joseph Boakai's fluency in English, unaware that English is Liberia's official language. While this remark sparked criticism and was seen by some as a tone-deaf or colonial-minded comment, Liberia's Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti emphasized that no offense was taken and highlighted the importance of maintaining strong, respectful ties with the United States. The incident inspired a viral tribute song in Liberia celebrating Boakai and generated mixed reactions among Liberians, with some viewing the visit positively as a step forward in international relations and others expressing frustration over perceived ignorance. Liberia, founded by freed Black Americans in the early 19th century, uses English as its mother tongue, a fact that many noted President Trump appeared unaware of during the meeting. Despite the gaffe, Boakai used the opportunity to showcase Liberia's democratic credentials and mineral wealth, which some locals viewed with pride. The episode underscored lingering questions about American perceptions of Liberia and highlighted the complexities of the U.S.-Liberia relationship.