MONROVIA – Newly appointed Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) Director General Daniel Dee Ziankahn, Jr. and his two deputies have tested negative for drugs as they prepare to appear before the Liberian Senate for confirmation.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr.

Ziankahn and his deputies, Precious Rue, Deputy Director General for Operations, and Prince Mulbah, Deputy Director General for Administration, underwent drug testing on Wednesday at the Wellness Health Center in Congo Town, outside Monrovia.

A team of journalists witnessed the testing process, and all three officials received negative results. Speaking after the test, Ziankahn said officers responsible for fighting illegal drugs must first demonstrate good character and discipline by setting an example for the public.

He said the decision to undergo testing before their confirmation was intended to show that the new leadership is prepared to follow the laws it is expected to enforce.

“As security officers, especially those fighting drugs, we need to lead the way and set the standards. As you can see here today, we came to do our drug test before going for confirmation,” Ziankahn said.

The LDEA’s fight against illegal drugs is built around four major areas: intelligence-led operations, drug prevention and demand reduction, institutional accountability and professionalism, and coordination with national and international partners under the National Anti-Drug Action Plan.

The agency’s intelligence-led operations are intended to stop the supply of illegal drugs by strengthening border security, monitoring major entry points and targeting trafficking networks that use Liberia as a transit route.

Its prevention and demand-reduction strategy focuses on educating the public, particularly young people, through school anti-drug clubs, community awareness campaigns, treatment and rehabilitation programs.

The agency also seeks to improve discipline and professionalism among its officers through drug testing, proper training and a zero-tolerance approach to corruption and misconduct.

Another key part of the strategy is cooperation among security institutions, health authorities, communities and other partners to ensure a coordinated national response.

Ziankahn has pledged to work with these strategies and strengthen their implementation to make the LDEA more effective, disciplined and professional.

He also urged officers of the agency to remain committed, focused and honest in carrying out their responsibilities, stressing that the fight against drugs must begin with accountability within the institution itself.

His appointment comes at a time when the LDEA has faced public criticism and questions about its leadership and effectiveness in fighting drug trafficking.

The leadership change followed the indefinite suspension of former Officer-in-Charge Fitzgerald Biago amid major cocaine seizures and investigations involving the agency’s previous administration.

The developments raised concerns about accountability, internal discipline and the agency’s ability to effectively fight the illegal drug trade. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai subsequently appointed Ziankahn and his two deputies in an acting capacity to take charge of the agency while the Senate confirmation process moves forward.

Meanwhile, some Liberians are expressing hope that Ziankahn’s appointment will bring meaningful changes to the LDEA and restore public confidence in an institution that plays a major role in protecting the country from illegal drugs.

Some believe his military and security background could help strengthen discipline within the agency, improve its operations and ensure that officers involved in drug enforcement carry out their duties professionally.

Others expect the new leadership to go beyond arresting street-level drug users and focus more attention on major dealers, suppliers and trafficking networks responsible for bringing illegal substances into the country.

There are also expectations that the new administration will investigate allegations of corruption within the agency, ensure that officers found guilty of misconduct are held accountable and prevent powerful individuals from interfering with drug investigations.

Young people and communities affected by drug abuse are also expected to benefit from stronger public education, prevention programs and rehabilitation services of the Zainkahn’s administration.

However, some Liberians believe the real test of the new leadership will not be its promises but its ability to produce visible results, including reducing the availability of illegal drugs, dismantling trafficking networks and rebuilding public trust.

For many observers, Ziankahn’s appointment presents an opportunity to change the public perception of the LDEA and strengthen the country’s fight against drug abuse and trafficking.

Zainkahn’s Senate confirmation still ahead, expectations are high that the new leadership will work with the agency’s anti-drug strategies and turn them into practical results.

MONROVIA — Expelled Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekehzie Kolubah has declared his intention to contest the presidency of Liberia, saying he wants to give suffering Liberians the opportunity to stand up for their rights and demand a fair share of the country’s resources.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr. edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

Kolubah made the declaration at a press conference on Sunday, October 11 where he dismissed rumors that he had returned to Liberia to apologize to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for his past criticism of the presidency.

Instead, the outspoken lawmaker announced that he was preparing to enter the presidential race, presenting himself as a political alternative for Liberians who, he said, have suffered for too long under greedy and selfish politicians.

“I never came back to Liberia to beg Mr. Boakai, as it is being carried and reported by the media and on street corners. I called this press conference to announce my intention to contest the presidency of Liberia,” Kolubah said.

“From now on, I will be a political leader, and I will continue to treat President Boakai as my colleague by calling him Mr. Boakai, but not to insult him again,” he added.
Kolubah’s declaration signals a new chapter in his political career, as he seeks to move beyond his role as a lawmaker and position himself for the country’s highest office.

He argued that Liberians continue to suffer while politicians accused of putting their personal interests first benefit from the country’s wealth.

According to Kolubah, his decision to contest the presidency is aimed at ensuring that ordinary citizens have a greater opportunity to benefit from Liberia’s natural resources and national wealth.

He said Liberians should no longer remain silent while their resources are “looted” by what he described as “hungry politicians.”

Kolubah did not present detailed policy proposals during the remarks provided, but he framed his presidential ambition around the need for fairness, accountability and improved conditions for ordinary citizens.
Kolubah also firmly rejected reports that he intended to apologize to President Boakai, insisting that he had done nothing wrong to warrant an apology.

He claimed that his disagreement was not with the President personally but with the President’s wife, adding that the rumors about an apology did not reflect his position.

“I will not apologize, as it is being rumored,” Kolubah said.

He further stated that he would continue to address Boakai as a colleague rather than use insulting language against him, suggesting a change in how he intends to conduct his political criticism.

Kolubah also expressed disappointment in some members of the opposition bloc, accusing them of contributing to division among opposition politicians instead of building unity around issues affecting the Liberian people.

His criticism comes as opposition figures continue to face the challenge of organizing themselves around common political goals.

Kolubah did not identify all the opposition members he was criticizing in the remarks provided.
The presidential hopeful also vowed to pursue accountability for alleged corruption and misuse of power under the Boakai administration.

He specifically mentioned Chief Justice Yamie Quiqui Gbeisay, whom he accused of corruption and misuse of power. Kolubah indicated that he wanted accountability for such alleged misconduct.

Kolubah’s declaration places his presidential ambition at the center of his next political move. He is now presenting himself as a potential contender for the presidency rather than limiting his political role to his former position in the House of Representatives.

Koluba wants Liberians to demand accountability, defend their rights and receive a fair share of the country’s resources.

It remains unclear by critics who viewed his presidential ambition that could not translate into a formal candidacy and a detailed national platform remains to be seen.

For now, Kolubah has publicly announced his intention to seek Liberia’s highest office and signaled that his political fight with the current administration is far from over.

MONROVIA —  The Government of Liberia is planning to introduce a modern ferry that could change the way people, vehicles and goods move along the country’s coastline.

By Edwin Genoway

The project is being led by the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), which is working on plans to acquire a multi-purpose ferry capable of carrying passengers, trucks, buses, SUVs, containers and heavy equipment.

The idea is to give Liberians another way to travel and move goods, especially between coastal communities. The ferry would not replace Liberia’s roads but would provide another transportation option.

LiMA Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., said Liberia has not fully used the economic opportunities offered by its coastline.

“Liberia must begin to fully utilize the enormous economic potential of our coastline and maritime resources,” Lighe said. According to the Commissioner, the ferry project is about more than buying a vessel.

He said the goal is to build a modern coastal transportation system that can connect communities, move goods faster, support businesses and create jobs.

“This initiative is about more than acquiring a ferry; it is about creating a modern coastal transportation system that connects communities, moves goods more efficiently, supports commerce, creates jobs, and opens new opportunities for regional trade,” he said.

Under the plan, the ferry would be operated through a Public-Private Partnership, commonly called a PPP. This means the government would provide oversight and make sure the service follows the law, while a private company would provide investment, management and technical experience.

The partnership would also define who is responsible for important areas such as vessel maintenance, passenger safety, environmental protection, revenue management and customer service.

Lighe said safety and accountability would be important parts of the project. “We are committed to ensuring that any ferry service developed under this initiative meets the highest applicable standards of safety, environmental responsibility, operational efficiency, and accountability,” he said.

He added that the government wants to combine its responsibility to protect the public with private-sector investment and experience.

The planned ferry could also create new opportunities for Liberian workers. LiMA says the project could provide jobs, training and skills development for people working in the maritime sector, including Liberian seafarers and other maritime professionals.

The project could also help businesses that transport goods along the coast. Instead of depending only on roads, companies could potentially use the ferry to move trucks, containers, equipment and other cargo.

LiMA said the vessel and its operations would have to follow Liberian laws as well as international rules on maritime safety, security and environmental protection.

As the plan moves forward, LiMA said it will consult with government agencies, private businesses, coastal communities, maritime workers and other stakeholders.

The purpose of those discussions will be to determine whether the project is technically possible, financially sustainable and able to meet Liberia’s transportation needs.

For the government, the larger goal is to make Liberia’s coastline an important part of the country’s economy. If successfully developed, the ferry project could give coastal communities another transportation link while supporting trade, employment and investment.

The initiative is therefore being presented by LiMA as part of a broader effort to use Liberia’s coastline and maritime resources to support national development.

Monrovia – The Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitzgerald T. M. Biago, has strongly rejected allegations linking him to individuals accused in Liberia’s multimillion-dollar cocaine trafficking investigation, insisting that he has never accepted gifts, favors or benefits in exchange for compromising his official duties.

By Edwin G. Genoway Jr.

Biago’s denial follows allegations by political activist Martin K. N. Kollie, who claimed in a lengthy social media post that the LDEA chief received a Toyota Hilux pickup truck from George Harris, also known as Leroy Harris, a man reportedly charged by Liberian authorities in connection with the country’s US$317 million cocaine seizure.

Biago dismissed the allegations as false and misleading, saying they are not supported by credible evidence.

“I categorically reject these allegations as false, misleading, and without credible evidence,” Biago stated in a Facebook post.

The LDEA chief said his career has been dedicated to serving Liberia, upholding the law and carrying out his responsibilities with professionalism and integrity.

“I have never accepted any gift, favor, or benefit from any individual or criminal organization in exchange for compromising my duties,” he asserted.

Kollie Questions Toyota Hilux

At the center of Kollie’s allegations is a grey Toyota Hilux pickup truck that he claims is being used by Biago.

Kollie alleged that vehicle registration information he obtained lists George Wha Harris as the registered owner of the pickup, bearing license plate A532084.

According to Kollie, the vehicle was entered into the registration system in November 2024 and registered under Harris’ name. He used the alleged registration information to question how the vehicle came into Biago’s possession and whether it was provided to the LDEA chief by Harris.

However, registration of a vehicle in an individual’s name does not, by itself, establish that the vehicle was subsequently given to another person as a gift or benefit. That claim would require independent verification.

Kollie also alleged that another vehicle was purchased for Biago’s wife by individuals linked to the alleged narcotics network, but the claim was not independently substantiated in the material he published.

Claims of Security Links

Beyond the vehicle allegation, Kollie claimed that Harris maintained relationships with senior security officials, including Biago.

He further alleged that individuals involved in narcotics trafficking had developed relationships within Liberia’s security institutions, particularly the LDEA and the Liberia National Police.

Kollie called for Biago’s resignation or dismissal and urged that the allegations be subjected to a formal investigation.

He also indicated that he intends to release additional information concerning what he described as an alleged drug trafficking network and its suspected collaborators.

Biago Welcomes Investigation

Despite rejecting the allegations, Biago said he is prepared to cooperate with any legitimate investigation by the appropriate authorities.

He stressed, however, that any investigation must be independent, impartial and grounded in evidence rather than social media claims and speculation.

“I remain fully prepared to cooperate with any lawful, independent, and impartial investigation, as I am confident that the truth will prevail through due process rather than speculation or misinformation,” Biago wrote.

His response comes amid heightened public scrutiny of Liberia’s national drug enforcement efforts following major cocaine seizures and ongoing investigations into alleged narcotics trafficking networks.

‘My Focus Remains on the Drug Fight’

Biago said the allegations would not distract him from his responsibilities as head of the LDEA.

He reaffirmed his commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking, dismantling criminal networks and apprehending individuals involved in narcotics-related activities.

“My focus remains steadfast on leading the fight against illicit drugs and dismantling these networks,” he said.

The LDEA has similarly rejected claims that Biago received a vehicle from an alleged drug trafficker, describing the allegation as unsupported by any credible record, documentation or verifiable evidence.

The Agency has encouraged anyone with credible evidence of misconduct to submit it to the appropriate investigative authorities for independent and lawful review.

Allegations Require Verification

The allegations against Biago remain unproven and should not be treated as established facts unless substantiated through an official investigation or judicial proceedings.

The claims presented by Kollie, including the alleged vehicle transfer, do not by themselves establish that Biago participated in drug trafficking, accepted a bribe or committed any criminal offense.

Biago has denied the allegations and has expressly indicated his willingness to face a lawful and independent investigation.

The broader narcotics investigation also remains subject to due process, with individuals accused or charged in connection with the cocaine case entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.

For Biago, however, the message is clear: he says the allegations will not deter him from leading Liberia’s fight against illicit drugs.

“My focus remains steadfast on leading the fight against illicit drugs and dismantling these networks,” he said.

MATADI, Airfield – Tears, smoke, and heartbreak filled the air in the Matadi Community on Airfield after a devastating fire destroyed two apartment buildings, leaving more than 15 people homeless and wiping out everything many families had worked for over the years.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr, edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

The fire broke out on Monday, July 20 sending thick black smoke into the sky as frightened residents ran for safety. Within minutes, flames had spread rapidly through the buildings, giving families almost no time to save their belongings.

Three fire trucks from the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) rushed to the scene, where firefighters battled the intense blaze for several hours before finally bringing it under control.

Residents joined the effort by carrying water, clearing paths, and assisting firefighters as the community fought desperately to stop the fire from spreading further.

For the victims, however, the damage had already been done. “I didn’t take anything from my home,” property owner Mr. Kromah said with visible pain as he looked at the ashes where his house once stood.

“This is frustrating.”

Mr. Kromah, still shaken by the tragedy, said he could not explain what caused the fire.

His words reflected the confusion and sadness shared by many of the victims. Among those affected was Tetee Quaye, a firefighter with the Liberia National Fire Service, who ironically lost everything she owned while serving her country.

She said she was on duty when she received the heartbreaking phone call.

“I was at work when I got the news that there was a fire in Matadi. When I came here, I saw my home in flames. I couldn’t save anything. Everything I owned was destroyed.”

With tears filling her eyes, Quaye wondered how she would begin life again after losing all her possessions in a matter of minutes.

The fire destroyed two apartment buildings, including the property owner’s residence and a four-bedroom rental apartment occupied by several families.

More than 15 people are now without shelter, clothing, food, and other basic necessities.

Adding to concerns, a makeshift gas station located directly in front of the buildings may have intensified the flames, although officials have not confirmed whether it played any role in causing or worsening the fire.

The Head of Communications at the Liberia National Fire Service, Col. Jackie M.Q. Sie, said investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the fire.

“We are definitely going to come up with a report to determine what caused the outbreak. But for now, our major concern was to put the fire

under control and that is what our firefighters have done,” she told reporters at the scene.

As the flames flickered out, a heart-wrenching scene unfolded in the neighborhood. Men, women, and children stood in stunned silence, gazing at the charred remains of what used to be their homes.

Some victims wept openly, while others seemed too dazed to utter a word.  Senior officers from the Liberia National Police arrived to secure the area as hundreds of community members gathered to witness the devastation.

This tragedy has left families facing an uncertain future. With no homes to return to and no belongings to salvage, many victims are now relying on the generosity of relatives, neighbors and kind-hearted strangers.

As these families work to rebuild their lives from the ashes, there’s a growing hope that the Government of Liberia(GoL), humanitarian organizations, businesses and compassionate citizens will step up with emergency aid, including temporary shelter, food, clothing, bedding and financial support.

For the victims of the Matadi fire, while the flames may have been put out, the painful journey of rebuilding their lives is just beginning.

Monrovia – The political leader of the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC), Simeon Freeman, has sharply criticized President Joseph Nyuma Boakai over the government’s handling of the ongoing US$19.21 million drug case, publicly accusing the President of failing to ensure accountability in one of Liberia’s most high-profile narcotics investigations.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr

Speaking on the matter, Freeman alleged that the President’s silence and what he described as a lack of urgency in resolving the case have raised serious public concerns.

“President Boakai is a drug peddler. Only a drug peddler can ignore such a huge drug case that has captured the attention of the entire nation,” Freeman said.

Freeman further accused President Boakai of turning a blind eye to the investigation surrounding the seizure of narcotics valued at approximately US$19.21 million, arguing that Liberians deserve clear answers about the circumstances surrounding the case and the progress of the investigation.

“How can a serious country have a president who frequents nightclubs while citizens remain confused about the origins of US$19.21 million worth of drugs in Liberia?” Freeman asked.

The MPC political leader said the government’s handling of the case has undermined public confidence in state institutions, insisting that transparency and accountability are essential if the administration is to maintain the trust of the Liberian people.

The US$19.21 million drug case remains one of the country’s most significant narcotics investigations. Authorities have previously announced arrests and launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding the seizure, but the case continues to attract intense public attention as many Liberians await a comprehensive investigative report and the conclusion of judicial proceedings. Questions surrounding the origin of the drugs, the individuals responsible, and the status of the investigation have continued to fuel public debate.

Freeman argued that the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the case reflects broader governance challenges and criticized what he described as the administration’s failure to provide timely information to the public.

Critics of the Unity Party-led government have also expressed concern over the pace of the investigation, with some arguing that the administration has not done enough to reassure the public that everyone connected to the case will be held accountable regardless of their status.

As public scrutiny intensifies, many Liberians continue to call on law enforcement agencies and the government to conclude the investigation, publish its findings, and ensure that anyone found responsible faces the full weight of the law.

The Government of Liberia and President Joseph Nyuma Boakai have publicly denied any involvement in drug trafficking. As of publication, no evidence has been presented establishing that President Boakai is involved in the US$19.21 million drug case, and the investigation remains ongoing.

MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia and key partners have launched a new five-year strategic plan for the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA), aimed at strengthening the country’s fight against money laundering, corruption, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr, edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

The launch program was held at the FIA headquarters in Sinkor on June 30, 2026, with Alaric K. Tokpah serving as keynote speaker.

In his address, Tokpah said protecting Liberia’s financial system is important for national security, economic growth, and public trust in government institutions. He explained that criminals who move money illegally do more than break the law; they also take away resources that could be used to improve schools, hospitals, roads, agriculture, and jobs for ordinary Liberians.

He praised the current leadership of the FIA for restoring confidence in the institution after what he described as difficult years in the past.

“The FIA has started to enforce sanctions against non-compliant institutions, issue warnings to entities that violate regulations, and initiate probes into irregularities across sectors,” Tokpah said.

According to him, the FIA is once again playing its role of protecting Liberia’s financial system and ensuring that public institutions operate with transparency and accountability.

Tokpah also stressed that fighting financial crimes cannot be done by one institution alone. He called for stronger cooperation between the FIA, the Ministry of Justice, the Central Bank of Liberia, the Liberia Revenue Authority, the judiciary, civil society organizations, the media, and international partners.

He noted that financial crimes often cross national borders, making partnerships with international organizations such as Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa, Financial Action Task Force, and the Egmont Group very important.

“National security today is not only about borders and weapons. It is also about money, data, networks, and institutions,” Tokpah told the audience.

Also speaking at the event, Alex Cuffey, representing the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, said the strategic plan comes at an important time as Liberia works to improve public financial management and grow the economy.

Cuffey warned that financial crimes hurt national development by taking money away from important sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and energy.

“The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning recognizes the vital role of the FIA in protecting the integrity of the financial system of Liberia,” he said.

He added that the successful implementation of the plan would improve cooperation among government institutions, strengthen financial investigations, increase the recovery of stolen assets, and help Liberia meet international financial standards.

Cuffey also assured the FIA of the government’s continued support. “Achieving the objectives of this strategic plan will require sustained political commitment, adequate resources, institutional coordination, and continued investment in capacity and technology,” he said.

Meanwhile, the banking sector also pledged its support for the new strategy.

Speaking on behalf of the Liberia Bankers Association, Prince Seton praised the FIA for developing the plan and described it as an important step toward strengthening Liberia’s financial system.

Seton represented Olalekan Balogun at the event. He said banks and financial institutions have a shared responsibility to help prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.

“The banking sector fully supports this initiative because protecting the integrity of our financial system is a shared responsibility,” Seton said.

Quoting British writer C. S. Lewis, he reminded participants that, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”

The FIA Strategic Plan covers the period from 2026 to 2031 and is expected to guide the agency’s work in improving financial intelligence, strengthening partnerships, increasing institutional capacity, and supporting Liberia’s fight against corruption and financial crimes.

Officials at the launch said the plan is not just a document, but a national commitment to ensuring that Liberia’s financial system serves the interests of the people and supports the country’s long-term economic growth and stability.

MONROVIA – The Movement for Progressive Change (MPC) political leader, Simeon Freeman, has called for international sanctions against senior government officials if authorities fail to bring the ongoing investigation into the country’s high-profile airport drug seizure to a conclusion within the next two weeks.

By Edwin Genoway

Freeman’s comments come amid public scrutiny surrounding the investigation into a cocaine shipment reportedly valued at approximately US$19 million that was intercepted at Roberts International Airport.
The case has generated widespread debate across the country, with citizens, civil society organizations, and opposition figures demanding greater transparency regarding the identities of those responsible and the progress of the investigation.
Addressing the issue, Freeman argued that the government’s response has been insufficient and has failed to reassure the public that every effort is being made to uncover the full scope of the alleged trafficking operation. According to him, the prolonged nature of the investigation has created an environment in which speculation continues to flourish while official answers remain limited.

Freeman maintained that the government has a responsibility to provide regular updates on the status of the case, especially given the magnitude of the seizure and its potential implications for Liberia’s international image. He said the absence of publicly announced arrests and the continued withholding of key information have contributed to growing concerns among ordinary Liberians.

“The Liberian people deserve more than vague assurances that an investigation is ongoing. This case involves a massive quantity of narcotics that allegedly passed through critical points of our national security infrastructure, and yet weeks later the public is still waiting to hear who organized the shipment, who financed it, who was expected to receive it, and whether individuals within state institutions may have played any role in facilitating its movement. Transparency is not optional in a matter of this magnitude; it is essential to restoring public confidence and protecting Liberia’s credibility before the international community,” Freeman said.

The opposition politician further questioned why authorities have not disclosed the names of persons of interest or announced any significant breakthroughs despite the considerable attention the case has received. While acknowledging the work of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency in intercepting the shipment, Freeman argued that the investigation should have already produced concrete results.
According to him, the government’s handling of the matter risks sending the wrong message both domestically and internationally. He warned that Liberia could face reputational consequences if foreign partners conclude that authorities are unwilling or unable to aggressively pursue those responsible for large-scale narcotics trafficking.

Freeman also expressed concern about what he described as inconsistencies in the government’s public communications regarding the case. He noted that while officials have cited the need to protect the integrity of the investigation as justification for withholding certain information, public attention has increasingly focused on the disclosure of details surrounding individuals who helped expose aspects of the scandal.

“This is no longer simply a criminal investigation; it has become a test of Liberia’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law. If powerful people are being shielded from scrutiny while ordinary citizens are expected to trust a process that offers few answers, then confidence in public institutions will continue to erode. The international community has a legitimate interest in ensuring that Liberia does not become a safe corridor for transnational drug trafficking, and if meaningful progress is not made within a reasonable period, there should be serious consequences for those entrusted with overseeing this investigation,” Freeman added.
The MPC leader subsequently called on Liberia’s international partners to closely monitor developments in the case and consider punitive measures should the investigation fail to reach a credible conclusion within 14 days. Among the actions he proposed were sanctions targeting senior government officials, including restrictions on assets and other measures designed to encourage accountability.

For its part, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency has maintained that the investigation remains active and that certain information cannot be released prematurely without jeopardizing ongoing efforts.

Officials have repeatedly stated that investigators are pursuing all available leads and remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

Monrovia – The Civil Service Agency (CSA) has announced a series of reforms aimed at improving public service delivery, employee welfare and decentralization across Liberia.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr(231886458910)-edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

Speaking at a press conference in Monrovia on Wednesday, CSA Director-General, Dr. Josiah F. Joekai Jr.,  said the agency is making significant investments to strengthen its operations, including the installation of a new 200 KVA generator, Starlink internet services, and the procurement of six vehicles.

“We are pleased to report tangible progress in strengthening Liberia’s public service and improving the systems, structures, and institutions that support government operations across the country,” Dr. Joekai said.

The CSA boss also disclosed that the agency has completed renovations of its Western Regional Office, which will serve public servants in Bomi, Grand Cape Mount and Gbarpolu Counties.

 He added that plans are underway to construct additional regional offices in Grand Gedeh, Bong and Grand Bassa Counties as part of the government’s decentralization agenda.

Dr. Joekai further announced that more than 6,000 government employees have been identified for the 2026 national retirement exercise.

According to him, the process will allow affected workers adequate time to prepare for retirement while enabling institutions to plan for replacements.

“Retirement represents a well-deserved recognition of years of dedicated service to the Republic of Liberia, and the Government remains committed to ensuring that retirees transition with dignity, honor and appreciation,” he stated.

The CSA also revealed that a nationwide rollout of the Government of Liberia’s Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement will begin immediately, with all public institutions required to comply by July 31, 2026.

On employee welfare, Dr. Joekai intimated that  enrollment in the Legal Power of Attorney Scheme has increased to 9,416 employees, with over US$587,000 in transactions processed. He warned Human Resource Directors against blocking eligible employees from accessing the benefit.

“This communication serves as the final warning to all Human Resource Directors regarding this matter,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, Dr. Joekai announced that the 2026 National Public Service Day celebration will be held in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, on June 23, with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai expected to serve as Special Guest of Honor.

He said the reforms and initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to building a professional, accountable and citizen-centered public service.

“The journey toward a transformed public service is ongoing, but the progress we are witnessing today confirms that we are moving in the right direction,” Dr. Joekai added.

Monrovia – The Liberia Land Authority and the Financial Intelligence Agency have officially launched a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at educating the public and stakeholders about new standards and regulations in the real estate industry.

By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr. – edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

The campaign seeks to make the buying, selling, leasing, and development of land and property more transparent, accountable and secure.

Officials say the initiative is necessary because the real estate sector plays an important role in Liberia’s economy but continues to face challenges such as fraud, land disputes, corruption and the risk of money laundering.

According to the Officer-in-Charge of the FIA, Mohammed Nasser, some individuals and criminal groups have used property transactions to hide money obtained through illegal activities.

Through the awareness campaign, the FIA hopes to educate property owners, real estate agents, developers, lawyers, surveyors and construction companies about their responsibilities under Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism regulations.

Nasser said the campaign will encourage people involved in property transactions to maintain proper documentation and verify ownership before buying or selling land.

He noted that greater transparency will help reduce fraud, prevent land conflicts, and strengthen public confidence in the real estate sector.

Speaking at the launch, Liberia Land Authority Chairman, Samuel F. Kpakio, said the initiative comes at a critical time for the country.

He explained that for many years Liberia’s real estate sector operated with limited regulation and weak oversight, creating opportunities for fraud, land disputes and financial crimes.

“Today, we are laying the institutional foundation for a transparent, accountable, and professionally regulated real estate sector in Liberia,” Kpakio said.

He continued as saying, “These measures are not intended to discourage business or investment. Rather, they are designed to protect legitimate investment, strengthen public confidence, improve transparency, and establish Liberia as a credible investment destination.”

Kpakio stressed that transparency is essential for national development and said the partnership between the LLA and FIA will help create a modern real estate sector that protects property owners while encouraging responsible investment.

For many Liberians, land is one of their most valuable assets.

However, disputes over ownership and poor documentation have often led to conflicts that can last for years.

The Liberia Land Authority says it is working to modernize land administration systems, improve property records, and establish more reliable methods for valuing land and buildings across the country.

These reforms are expected to make property transactions easier, safer, and more secure for citizens.

They will also help ensure that buyers know exactly who owns a piece of property before purchasing it, reducing the risk of fraud and future disputes.

The awareness campaign is also intended to help businesses and professionals operating in the real estate sector understand their legal obligations.

Real estate agents, brokers, lawyers, developers and construction companies will receive information on how to keep accurate records, verify clients’ identities, and report suspicious transactions when necessary.

Officials say the benefits of the campaign extend beyond the real estate industry. Better property records and valuation systems can help the government collect taxes more effectively, generating additional revenue that can be used to support roads, schools, hospitals and other public services.

Acting Risk Management Director at the FIA, Tanneh Sonpon, encouraged vendors and real estate owners to be careful and check thoroughly and know who they selling and doing business with.

“The FIA stands ready to ensure that there’s fair deal among land owners, real estate owners and buyers,” Miss Sonpon noted that the launch is expected to reach property owners, real estate professionals, surveyors, financial institutions, local government officials, and members of the general public who are involved in buying, selling or renting property.

“We believe that by increasing public awareness and strengthening oversight, Liberia can create a safer and more trustworthy real estate market,” she noted.

Madam Sonpon says the campaign represents an important step toward protecting property rights, attracting investment, fighting financial crimes and ensuring that the real estate sector contributes positively to the country’s economic growth.