Monrovia, May 5 -- Rising political tensions in Liberia have taken a sharper turn following controversial remarks by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, with senior clergy calling for calm, clarity, and more responsible national discourse.

By Obediah Johnson

The latest wave of reactions stems from a parable delivered by President Boakai during the dedication of the Ministry of Local Government in Monrovia on April 20. In his remarks, the President said: "If you are going somewhere and dogs are barking at you, if you stop to throw stones at every dog, you will not reach your destination."

While some interpreted the statement as a call for focus amid criticism, others-particularly opposition figures and critics-viewed it as derogatory, sugges...