US: Donald Trump Under Fire for Praising ‘Good English’ of Liberian President

“You Speak Such Good English” — Trump’s Comment to Liberian President Sparks Outrage Online

According to a NewsVista reporter, a moment of awkwardness unfolded at the White House as former U.S. President Donald Trump complimented Liberian President Joseph Boakai on his English — seemingly unaware that English is Liberia’s official language.

During a meeting with leaders from Liberia, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Senegal, Trump turned to President Boakai and said, “Such good English, it’s beautiful. Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?” The 80-year-old leader politely smiled and mentioned his place of education, while Trump remarked that others at the table “can’t speak nearly as well.”

The exchange, caught on video and shared by global outlets like CNN and BBC, quickly went viral. Critics online viewed Trump’s comment as ignorant, with many calling it a reflection of racial bias and a lack of historical awareness. Liberia, founded in the 1800s by freed African Americans, has English as its official language.

Social media exploded with commentary. Activist Dr. Shola Mos-Shogbamimu called the moment “overt racism,” while others lamented what they described as a “low bar” for African dignity on the world stage.

Despite the backlash, the meeting also touched on serious issues, with Trump pledging a shift in U.S. strategy in Africa—from giving aid to building trade partnerships. He also confirmed renewed support for Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia.

For many Africans, though, it was the tone of Trump’s remarks that left the strongest impression.