Monrovia– Former President George Manneh Weah has extended heartfelt condolences to Liberia’s Muslim community following the death of Grand Mufti Sheikh Dr. Abass Kanneh, describing the revered Islamic scholar as a patriot, educator, and champion of peace whose legacy will endure for generations.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh

Sheikh Kanneh died on Wednesday, July 29, in Freetown, Sierra Leone. He was widely respected for his decades of service to Islam and interfaith dialogue in Liberia and across the region.

In a statement issued Tuesday by his office, Ex-President Weah expressed sympathy to the Kanneh family, the National Muslim Council of Liberia, the wider Muslim community, the interfaith community, and all Liberians mourning the loss.

“The Muslim Community and I have also come a long way,” Weah said. “I attended Muslim Congress, I was at some point a Muslim, and converted back to being a Christian up to present. They are also my people. Just like the Christian Community, when they are bereaved, I am bereaved; when they have a loss, it is my loss.”

The former president, who is currently out of the country, said he intends to visit the bereaved family and the National Muslim Council upon his return to Liberia to personally convey his condolences.

Weah paid tribute to Sheikh Kanneh’s lifelong commitment to religious service and scholarship, describing him as an expert in Islamic theology, comparative theology, and Islamic jurisprudence, as well as a respected advocate for peace, social justice, and national unity.

He said the late Grand Mufti would be remembered for his teachings, academic contributions, selfless service, and unwavering dedication to Liberia’s Muslim community and the broader interfaith movement.

Sheikh Kanneh was one of Liberia’s most distinguished Islamic scholars. He served as Director of the Muslim World League Office in Sierra Leone and President of Magboroka Islamic University College. He earned a doctorate in Islamic Theology from Ummul-Qura University in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and devoted much of his life to advancing Islamic education and promoting religious harmony.

Weah concluded by praying that the Kanneh family, the National Muslim Council, Muslims in Liberia and around the world, and all Liberians find strength and comfort during this period of mourning.

The death of Sheikh Kanneh has prompted an outpouring of tributes from religious leaders, government officials, and members of the public, many remembering him as a bridge-builder whose influence extended beyond the Muslim community through his advocacy for peace, tolerance, and national cohesion.

RAMAT NEGEV, Israel – As Liberia continues to prioritize agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and food security, a group of more than 30 Liberian students undergoing advanced agricultural training in Israel say they are eager to return home and apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired to help transform the sector.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

Successive Liberian governments have long recognized agriculture as critical to diversifying the economy, reducing poverty, and combating hunger. The current Boakai-Koung administration has elevated the sector to the top of its ARREST Agenda—an acronym for Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism—underscoring its importance to national development.

Speaking to a delegation of journalists from Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone during a visit to Israel’s renowned Ramat Negev Desert Agro-Research and Business Center, the students expressed a shared commitment to returning home after graduation to contribute to Liberia’s agricultural development.

For many of the students, the experience has reinforced their belief that agriculture remains one of Liberia’s greatest opportunities for economic transformation.

“After my studies, I need to go back to my country to serve my people by passing the knowledge on to other young people who are willing to learn,” said Ezekiel B. Owah, one of the Liberian trainees.

“From what we hear through the media and other sources, our government is prioritizing agriculture. The knowledge I am gaining here can help boost Liberia’s economy, and that is why I want to return home and share it with others,” he added.

The Liberian students are among hundreds of participants from Africa and other parts of the world enrolled in intensive agricultural training programs at the Ramat Negev Center, an institution internationally recognized for its expertise in desert agriculture, water management, and climate-resilient farming techniques.

Bringing Home Practical Solutions

For Joanna G. Kollie, 21, who previously studied General Agriculture in Liberia, the training has opened her eyes to practical solutions for some of the challenges confronting Liberia’s agricultural sector.

She pointed specifically to post-harvest losses and inadequate storage systems as areas where lessons from Israel could have an immediate impact.

“Every year during mango season in Liberia, fruits spoil because there are limited storage facilities,” Kollie explained. “Here in Israel, we are learning modern storage management techniques that can help preserve produce for longer periods and reduce waste.”

She emphasized that improving agricultural productivity will require more than policy declarations.

“Agriculture is not office work. It is field work. If we want to improve the sector, we must be willing to get into the fields, work the land, and apply the knowledge we have acquired,” she said.

Kollie also highlighted the importance of investment, noting that access to finance remains essential for building storage facilities, irrigation systems, and other infrastructure needed to sustain agricultural growth.

Determined to Return Home

Several students acknowledged that studying in Israel presents opportunities to remain abroad due to attractive employment prospects. However, many said they are determined to return to Liberia despite those temptations.

Owah recounted his own journey to the program, explaining that he faced multiple rejections before finally being accepted.

“I applied several times and was rejected, but I never gave up,” he said. “When I finally got the opportunity, I understood that I was representing not just myself or my family, but my country.”

He urged future scholarship recipients to remain focused on their educational goals and avoid abandoning their studies for short-term employment opportunities.

“Sometimes people will encourage you to leave school and work in the city because the money looks attractive,” he said. “But we have a responsibility to return home and use what we have learned to help our country develop.”

Plans to Drive Change

Another student, Augustine T. Mulbah, 26, who is specializing in Animal Science, revealed that he and several colleagues are already discussing ways to organize themselves upon their return to Liberia.

According to Mulbah, the students hope to establish an organization that can mobilize resources and support agricultural initiatives aimed at improving productivity, livestock management, and food security.

The students said their exposure to state-of-the-art farming technologies, efficient irrigation systems, modern livestock practices, and climate-smart agricultural methods has strengthened their conviction that agriculture can become a major engine of growth in Liberia.

Among those who spoke with journalists were Joseph Sackie, Augustine Mulbah, and Moses Flomo, all of whom described agriculture as the foundation of Liberia’s future prosperity.

They noted that many of the techniques being taught in Israel—including water conservation, drought-resistant crop production, and sustainable land-management practices—could be adapted to Liberia’s agricultural environment and help increase yields while reducing losses.

Learning from a Global Agricultural Success Story

Located in Israel’s southern desert region, the Ramat Negev Desert Agro-Research and Business Center has gained international recognition for pioneering innovations that have enabled farming to thrive in one of the world’s most challenging environments.

The center serves as a training hub for students and agricultural professionals from developing countries seeking practical solutions to climate-related and food-production challenges.

Elisha Zurgil, an international agricultural adviser at the center, said Israel’s success demonstrates how technology and innovation can transform even the harshest landscapes into productive agricultural zones.

“Israel has been able to make the desert green through technology, research, and efficient resource management,” Zurgil said. “We consistently produce agricultural surpluses despite limited natural resources.”

Having worked on agricultural projects across Africa, including Kenya, Zurgil expressed optimism that the Liberian students would play an important role in advancing agricultural development in their home country.

“We are happy to train these students because when they return home, they become ambassadors of knowledge,” he said. “They can share what they have learned and help create opportunities for others.”

As they prepare to complete their studies, the students remain united by a common goal: returning to Liberia equipped with new skills, practical experience, and a determination to help build a stronger and more productive agricultural sector.

Monrovia – A longstanding dispute between a senior researcher at the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) and the institution’s management has escalated after Dr. Nykoi Jomah accused CARI’s leadership of ignoring directives issued by the Office of the Ombudsman, unlawfully dismissing him from his position, and withholding five months of his salary.  

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

Dr. Jomah, who served as Head of the Livestock and Fishery Program at CARI, alleges that years of conflict with CARI Director General Dr. Arthur Bob Karnuah paralyzed his work and ultimately led to what he describes as an illegal dismissal.

The dispute dates back to July 2024 when Dr. Jomah filed a formal complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman, accusing CARI management of failing to provide him with essential tools, including a computer, printer, and office accessories necessary to perform his duties.

Following an investigation conducted in Bong County in May 2025, the Ombudsman concluded that CARI management violated provisions of the Code of Conduct for Public Officials and Employees by failing to provide Dr. Jomah with the basic equipment required to carry out his responsibilities.

The investigation found that Dr. Jomah had repeatedly requested the necessary tools, but that management cited budgetary constraints as the reason for not honoring those requests. Investigators noted that other researchers had access to equipment through donor-funded projects, while Dr. Jomah remained without institutional support.

The Ombudsman rejected CARI’s justification, stating that financial limitations did not absolve the institution of its obligation to provide essential resources to technical personnel. The report further noted that management failed to establish alternative arrangements, such as shared equipment or centralized resource allocation.

The investigation also examined Dr. Jomah’s transfer from Director of Programs for Livestock and Fishery to the position of Senior Researcher. The Ombudsman concluded that the transfer violated the Civil Service Standing Orders because there was no documented performance appraisal, disciplinary action, or performance management system to justify the demotion.

According to the report, the transfer was “procedurally flawed and legally indefensible.”

The Ombudsman recommended that CARI provide Dr. Jomah with the necessary equipment within 30 to 90 days, issue a public apology for violating the Code of Conduct, and comply with the institution’s directives or face sanctions.

The report also found that CARI management failed to respond promptly to communications from the Ombudsman, an action the investigation described as “willful non-compliance” and an obstruction of administrative justice.

While acknowledging that Dr. Jomah was a victim of administrative failures, the Ombudsman also held him partially responsible for failing to produce meaningful work over an extended period despite receiving government salaries and benefits. The report stated that he should have explored alternative reporting methods, including handwritten submissions.

The Ombudsman ordered Dr. Jomah to submit a summary report of his professional activities dating back to 2019 after receiving the necessary equipment and warned that failure to comply could result in further disciplinary action.

However, Dr. Jomah told FrontPage Africa that none of the Ombudsman’s directives have been implemented. He further alleges that CARI management proceeded to dismiss him and has withheld five months of his salary.

‘Serious Legal Reservations’

Responding to inquiries from FrontPage Africa, CARI management defended its actions and questioned the extent of the Ombudsman’s authority over the institution.

In a letter signed by Director General Dr. Arthur Bob Karnuah, CARI argued that as a statutory institution with administrative autonomy, the Ombudsman lacks the authority to direct the institute’s internal management decisions, operational priorities, and budgetary allocations.

CARI said it has “serious legal reservations” regarding the recommendation requiring the institute to procure a computer, printer, and other equipment for Dr. Jomah, arguing that such directives would compel expenditures without legislative appropriation or approved budget allocations.

“The recommendation is particularly troubling because it directly contradicts Section 8.3 of the Code of Conduct,” the institution stated, adding that public resources can only be utilized in accordance with approved budgets and financial regulations.

The institute further maintained that it has no policy requiring individual researchers to be assigned personal computers or printers and that shared institutional facilities are available to staff members.

Dismissal Case in Court

On the issue of his dismissal, CARI categorically rejected Dr. Jomah’s allegation that he was unlawfully terminated.

The institution disclosed that Dr. Jomah filed a motion for a preliminary injunction before the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court in Bong County on April 20, 2026, seeking reinstatement. According to CARI, the matter remains pending before the court.

Because of the ongoing litigation, CARI said it would be inappropriate to discuss the merits of the case publicly, noting that the legality of Dr. Jomah’s dismissal should be determined by the courts.

The institute also accused Dr. Jomah of attempting to influence public opinion through media appearances, radio programs, and social media campaigns while legal proceedings are ongoing.

“Public sentiment is neither a substitute for due process nor a proper mechanism for resolving employment disputes,” CARI stated.

However, Dr. Jomah disputed CARI’s characterization of the legal proceedings, stating that he did not institute legal action against the management over his alleged unlawful dismissal.

According to him, his primary focus is to compel CARI’s management, through the intervention of the Office of the Ombudsman and the Executive Mansion, to comply with the directives issued by the Ombudsman.

Dr. Jomah argued that the Ombudsman’s actions are grounded in law and derive authority from the President’s performance contract framework and the Code of Conduct, which established the Office of the Ombudsman. He contended that failure to comply with the Ombudsman’s directives amounts to gross insubordination toward the Office of the President.

This is not the first time Dr. Jomah has clashed with CARI’s management. Between 2019 and 2020, he and the institution were involved in a protracted dispute.

According to Dr. Jomah, CARI management was ordered to pay him the equivalent of 36 months’ salary. He said management subsequently paid 17 months, but the remaining balance remains outstanding.

As the dispute continues, the case has raised broader questions about accountability within public institutions, the enforceability of Ombudsman decisions, and the responsibilities of both management and public servants in resource-constrained environments.

The Office of the Ombudsman did not respond to FrontPage Africa’s inquiry. However, the institution indicated in its report that it will continue monitoring compliance with its recommendations and may take additional action if government agencies fail to implement its directives.

Monrovia – Former Foreign Minister Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah has firmly rejected reports suggesting that former President George Manneh Weah has abandoned plans to contest Liberia’s 2029 presidential election, insisting that the former Liberian leader remains committed to seeking a return to power.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

Kemayah’s comments come amid growing speculation that Weah may have yielded his presidential ambitions to Alternative National Congress political leader Alexander Cummings as opposition parties explore possible alliances ahead of the next election cycle.

Speaking on the matter, Kemayah described such claims as false, unrealistic, and politically motivated.

“For anyone to think that His Excellency President Dr. George Weah, the 25th President of Liberia and the incoming 27th President of Liberia, will surrender that desire to contest the presidency to anyone on planet earth—that is inconceivable; it is not practical,” Kemayah declared.

“That thought in itself is diabolical, and it is wickedness to the Liberian people.”

He further dismissed suggestions that Weah would step aside in favor of another political figure.

“It is something that is not conceivable, something that is not practical. This is something far-fetched. This is something that is not possible. This is something that will not become reality,” he added.

‘Weah shall Be a Candidate’

Kemayah revealed that he had spoken with Weah on the same day the speculation surfaced and said the former president remains confident that Liberians will reject misinformation.

“Just this afternoon when President Weah called me during our usual chat, we were talking and not knowing that some would call and raise this issue. He said the Liberian people will reject lies and embrace the truth,” Kemayah stated.

According to him, Weah referenced scripture from the Gospel of John, emphasizing the importance of truth in public discourse.

While expressing respect for Cummings, Kemayah insisted that Weah’s political future remains unchanged.

“Cummings is a friend. He is one of the stakeholders in Liberia. I respect him and will always respect him,” he said.

Despite that acknowledgment, Kemayah maintained that Weah remains focused on the 2029 race.

“His Excellency President Dr. George Manneh Weah shall be a candidate come 2029. Not only shall he be a candidate, but he will go on to win,” he declared.

Kemayah said Weah will continue efforts to unite opposition forces to prevent President Joseph Nyuma Boakai from securing a second term.

“He shall continue to rally them to ensure a united bloc within the opposition because our focus is to ensure that President Joseph Boakai becomes a one-term president,” Kemayah said.

Weah’s Changing Position on 2029

Kemayah’s remarks come against the backdrop of Weah’s evolving public statements about his political future.

Following his narrow defeat to President Boakai in the 2023 presidential election, Weah suggested that he would not seek another term in office. Speaking at his Forky Klon Jlaleh Family Fellowship Church in Paynesville, he cited his age and retirement considerations as factors in his decision.

At the time, Weah noted that he would be 63 years old by the 2029 election and questioned the practicality of serving only a few years before reaching retirement age.

However, the former president later reversed that position and publicly signaled his intention to return to the ballot.

At a CDC gathering in 2025, Weah accused the Unity Party administration of undermining democratic institutions and failing to address the country’s challenges.

“We have seen a systematic erosion of democracy, executive overreach, and disregard for our Constitution,” Weah said.

“They said we were the problem. But now the Liberian people can see who the real problem is. The Unity Party is the problem.”

He also assured supporters that the CDC was preparing for a political comeback.

“We will not give up on Liberia. We will not give up on CDC. We are the party of the slums and the cities. We are reorganizing, we are preparing, and we are coming back,” Weah declared.

Cummings Signals Interest in 2029

Meanwhile, Alexander Cummings has continued to increase his political visibility, fueling speculation that he, too, intends to contest the presidency in 2029.

Although the ANC has not issued a formal statement regarding reports of any arrangement involving Weah, party spokesperson Sensee Kiadii said the ANC remains open to political collaboration ahead of the next election.

Cummings, who has contested two previous presidential elections, recently engaged residents of Point Four and the Supermarket Community in Montserrado County District #16, where he spent much of his childhood.

Addressing supporters, he reflected on his upbringing and outlined his vision for national leadership.

Using a battery analogy to describe Liberia’s political challenges, Cummings argued that the country needs new leadership.

“If you have a battery radio and the battery runs down, putting the same battery back will not work. You need a new battery, and I am that new battery that the country needs,” he told residents.

The engagement forms part of Cummings’ ongoing grassroots outreach as he seeks to build support around a message of accountability, renewal, and economic transformation.

Opposition Landscape Taking Shape

With both Weah and Cummings signaling continued political ambitions, Liberia’s opposition landscape is gradually taking shape ahead of the 2029 presidential election.

While discussions about alliances and coalition arrangements are expected to continue, Kemayah’s latest comments leave little doubt about the CDC’s position.

According to the former foreign minister, any suggestion that Weah will step aside is misplaced.

For the CDC and its supporters, the message is clear: George Weah intends to be on the ballot in 2029.

Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has broken his silence on the large influx of Burkinabè nationals into Liberia. In recent years, the country has seen an estimated 100,000 or more Burkinabè arrive across several counties — primarily forest areas involved in cocoa production and mining.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonlonline.com, and  J.H. Webster Clayeh – websterclayeh@frontpageafricaonline.com

President Boakai expressed concern over the growing presence of undocumented Burkinabè nationals operating in Liberia’s mining sector, describing the issue as one of his administration’s most pressing challenges.

Speaking Thursday at the opening of the 20^th Cabinet Meeting at the Tea House of the Executive Mansion, President Boakai said illegal mining activities involving foreign nationals have become a major concern.

“Today, it is alarming that we have over 80,000 Burkinabè in this country. Some have already established themselves and are mostly involved in agriculture and mining, He said. “We have to find out how we would deal with that alarming number of Burkinabè in the country. The number is huge, and we don’t want people coming from another country undocumented. It is a situation that we have to deal with.”

He noted that concerns surrounding Burkinabè nationals in Liberia are not new, recalling reports dating back more than a decade in Grand Gedeh County, and emphasized the need for urgent government intervention.

The President also disclosed that he recently viewed a video showing alleged interference by Burkinabè nationals during an investigation conducted by Liberian authorities.

“I watched a video where they were investigating Burkinabè who were even putting up roadblocks to stop Liberian investigators from doing their jobs,” he said.

The President’s remarks came after a group of miners — predominantly Burkinabè — in Gbarpolu County allegedly attacked officials from the Ministry of Mines and Energy who had traveled there to conduct an inspection.

The inspection was part of a nationwide campaign by the Ministry to combat illegal mining. The exercise began in Gbarpolu County, one of Liberia’s gold-rich regions, where authorities say illegal mining involving Liberians, Chinese nationals, Burkinabè, and other foreign miners has become widespread.

An inspection team, supported by personnel from the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and the Liberia National Police (LNP), traveled overnight to Henry’s Town in Korninga Chiefdom and raided the AB Conteh Mining Site, arresting several individuals allegedly involved in illegal mining.

Authorities confirmed that AB Conteh Mining Company holds a Class B mining license, an Environmental Protection Agency permit, and a mining license from the Ministry of Mines and Energy. However, inspectors found 20 Liberians and 41 Burkinabè nationals working at the site, and the company was unable to provide work permits for the Burkinabè workers.

Officials further disclosed that workers at the site obstructed the inspection on May 24, 2026, by erecting roadblocks to prevent arrests. AFL soldiers and LNP officers eventually brought the situation under control.

Minister Tingban Warns Against Violations

Addressing workers at the site the following morning, Mines and Energy Minister Wilmot Paye Tingban said the government is determined to strengthen oversight of mining operations nationwide.

“My team and I are in the field to make sure that we establish full control over mining activities in this country,” Minister Tingban stated.

He stressed that the inspection was not intended to provoke confrontation, noting that holding a license does not exempt operators from complying with the law.

“We didn’t come to institute violence against anybody. AB Conteh Mining Company has a Class B license, an EPA permit, and a mining license from the Ministry of Mines and Energy. However, having the documents does not mean you can operate outside the law. You have those documents so that you remain within the law,” he said.

Tingban also raised concerns about license holders failing to account for minerals extracted from their sites.

“It is one of their obligations to ensure that the government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Mines and Energy, knows how much mineral they recover from here — how they dispose of it and how they sell it. If we don’t know, and you take it out illegally, that is an economic crime,” he said.

The Minister condemned the attacks on inspectors and the erection of roadblocks during the operation.

“The team came here yesterday and asked for your documents, which you provided. What they then asked for was your recovery report. Since you have been digging with these massive excavators, what have you recovered?” he asked. “Is that what provoked you to attack the team and set up roadblocks? Is that how you operate? I understand that most of you here are Burkinabè. Is that how it is done in Burkina Faso?”

A Growing National Security Concern

The government’s latest inspection campaign underscores deepening concerns over illegal mining, undocumented migration, and regulatory compliance in Liberia’s extractive sector.

The influx of Burkinabè nationals has become an escalating national security issue. In the southeast and Nimba County, reports indicate that Liberian farmers have entered into lease agreements with Burkinabè nationals to cultivate cocoa — arrangements that have in some cases led to land disputes and displacement.

One prominent case involved Grand Gedeh County Superintendent Alex C. Grant, who was accused of unilaterally leasing 500 acres of ancestral community forest land to a Burkinabè businessman for cocoa farming. The 30-year, $600,000 deal — signed in October 2025 — was subsequently nullified by the county attorney and declared illegal for violating the 2018 Land Rights Act.

The agreement drew sharp backlash from local residents, diaspora groups, and district lawmakers over multiple concerns, including the absence of community consent, violations of the 2018 Land Rights Act, environmental and displacement risks, and financial irregularities.

Environmental advocates noted that the deal completely bypassed the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) principle. Local clans and the B’hai Jozon Management Council were never consulted prior to the signing. The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) confirmed that the leased territory is customary land, meaning governance and leasing rights rest with the local community — not county authorities.

In response to public outrage and formal petitions, County Attorney Wilkins Nah officially voided the G’hai District land lease agreement shortly after it became public. The LLA also confirmed that county officials had overstepped their authority. According to Articles 32, 36, and 39 of the Land Rights Act (2018), customary land is owned and managed by communities themselves — not by county superintendents, district commissioners, or any central government representatives.

The LLA’s intervention resulted in the cancellation of the agreement, the dismissal of four employees at its central office involved in the deal, and the indefinite suspension of local LLA staff in Grand Gedeh pending investigation. The matter has since been referred to the Ministry of Justice for prosecution, though no court proceedings have been reported.

In Nimba County, particularly in Gbi-Doru Administrative District, reports indicate that Burkinabè nationals have signed lease agreements with local residents and are cultivating large cocoa farms in primary forests. There are concerns that farming activities could eventually encroach on the Gbi National Forest — a protected area rich in biodiversity and home to several of Liberia’s endemic plant and animal species.

The Burkinabè influx is unfolding against the backdrop of a separate and contentious border dispute with Guinea to the north, where the Guinean army is reported to still occupy Liberian territory — adding to mounting public pressure on the government.

Government Response

Speaking at a weekly press briefing on Friday, Presidential Press Secretary Kula Fofana said the Liberia Immigration Service, the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC), and international partners are working to establish a system to properly document Burkinabè nationals residing in Liberia.

“Once they are here, we need to know their mission,” Fofana said.

She disclosed that the government estimates the Burkinabè population in Liberia at approximately 140,000.

“They are around 140,000. They are in Grand Gedeh, Rivercess, and other parts of the country, and it is alarming. The President is determined to get more boots on the ground to ensure that measures are put in place to properly document them — to determine whether they are economic migrants or something else,” Fofana said.

She noted that many Burkinabè nationals enter Liberia at the invitation of Liberians involved in mining.

“It will interest you to know that some of these Burkinabè are coming on the invitation of Liberians living in those counties who are also involved in mining activities. Their labor costs are cheaper, and they are known for their physical endurance,” she said.

Fofana added: “They are relatively young people who come with their families. It is a concern of the President and his team at the LRRRC. They are not living in the cities — they have built structures deep in the bush.”

Monrovia — Former Vice President of Liberia Jewel Howard-Taylor and Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence have encouraged aspiring female politicians to remain resilient and committed despite the challenges of operating in Liberia’s male-dominated political environment.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh – gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

Speaking at the Women Political Aspirants Forum, the two prominent leaders shared personal experiences of perseverance, sacrifice, and determination, while urging women seeking public office to stay focused on service and leadership.

The forum brought together women political aspirants, elected officials, civil society organizations, development partners, and youth representatives, who renewed calls for increased investment in women’s political leadership and inclusive governance. Participants emphasized that Liberia’s democracy cannot reach its full potential while Women remain significantly underrepresented in Liberia’s Legislature, occupying only 11 of the 103 seats in the bicameral body, including three senators and eight representatives.

Reflecting on her political journey, former Vice President Taylor recounted how her public service began during Liberia’s civil conflict, when she worked closely with displaced communities.

“When I was First Lady, I started identifying with people in the displaced camps,” she said. “Because of the war, I couldn’t join my fellow First Ladies in undertaking initiatives, so I decided to do something meaningful by working with displaced people. That became the foundation of my political campaign.”

According to Madam Howard-Taylor, the relationships she built during those difficult years later translated into political support when she sought elected office.

“When I decided to run for the Senate in 2005, many people did not take me seriously. But the people remembered what I had done during the war — when I stood with them in their time of need,” she said.

Howard-Taylor stressed that successful leadership is rooted in service, integrity, and accountability.

“When you are elected to serve, never forget those who stood by you,” she told participants. “People support leaders who are prepared to serve and who genuinely care about their communities.”

She acknowledged the many obstacles women face in politics, including public criticism, abuse, and discrimination.

“It is a tough journey. It may look glamorous when you see us sitting here, but we walk through fire,” she said. “There is a lot of abuse and hatred directed at women leaders, but you must remain focused and determined, because leadership is about making a difference in the lives of others.”

She urged aspiring women leaders to maintain integrity and keep their promises to the people they serve.

“Leadership is integrity. Keep your promises and always remember why the people elected you,” she said.

Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence recounted her struggles when she first contested for a Senate seat in Grand Bassa County, Liberia’s second oldest county. She noted that while some women are accustomed to competing against other women in politics, she enjoys strong support largely from the women of Grand Bassa. She urged women to make integrity the bedrock of their political careers, adding, “You must be mindful of where you come from and where you are going.”

Senator Karnga-Lawrence and her late husband, Adolph Lawrence, made history by becoming Liberia’s only legislative couple. Mr. Lawrence was already serving as Representative of District #15, Montserrado County, when she was elected to the Senate. Tragically, he later died in a fatal car crash. Reflecting on that painful period, she said she contemplated quitting politics, but the women of Grand Bassa rallied behind her and volunteered to support her reelection bid. She credited their immense support as proof that when women stand together, they can succeed.

Senator Dabah M. Varpilah encouraged women to assert themselves and claim their rightful place in Liberia’s political landscape. She recounted how she was initially underestimated by male colleagues when she sought election as Vice Chairperson of the ruling Unity Party.

“Many people did not take me seriously, but I remained persistent,” she said. “Eventually, I won the position, and when my tenure ended, I ran unopposed.”

Varpilah urged women to find their voices, build confidence, and remain steadfast in pursuing leadership opportunities.

For her part, Representative Moima Briggs-Mensah of Bong County Electoral District #6 called on women holding top elected and appointed positions in government to create employment opportunities for female candidates who were unsuccessful in the 2023 presidential and legislative elections.

According to her, participating in elections is extremely costly, and recovering from an electoral defeat can be a daunting challenge for many women. She argued that providing employment opportunities would help empower women to remain engaged in public service and continue pursuing their political ambitions.

Representative Briggs-Mensah also emphasized the importance of effective leadership, noting that elected officials must keep their promises and maintain close ties with their constituents. She said identifying with the people and remaining responsive to their needs are essential qualities of good leadership.

Meanwhile, Presidential Press Secretary Kula Fofana spoke candidly about the pressures and challenges associated with public service. She also highlighted the financial barriers confronting women candidates during election campaigns, noting that limited access to resources continues to hinder women’s political advancement.

Participants at the forum concluded that increasing women’s representation in governance requires sustained investment in leadership development, mentorship, campaign financing, and institutional reforms aimed at creating a more inclusive political environment. They stressed that empowering more women to seek and hold public office is essential to strengthening Liberia’s democracy and ensuring that governance reflects the perspectives and aspirations of all citizens.

Monrovia – Liberia’s offshore petroleum sector is facing renewed scrutiny after the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) announced separate agreements with two foreign firms to conduct offshore survey activities in the Liberia and Harper Basins, raising questions about regulatory authority, licensing requirements, and compliance with the country’s Petroleum Law.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

The agreements, signed with GeoPartners Limited and Searcher Geodata UK Ltd, are being promoted by NOCAL as important steps toward advancing Liberia’s offshore energy ambitions through the acquisition of new geological and geophysical data. However, the deals have sparked criticism from transparency advocates and prompted a cautious response from the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority (LPRA), which maintains that such activities fall within Liberia’s reconnaissance licensing framework.

NOCAL Vice President Boakai Jaleiba described the agreements as a significant milestone in Liberia’s efforts to better understand its offshore resource potential.

“We are pleased to share an important development for Liberia’s offshore energy sector,” Jaleiba said. “NOCAL has entered into an agreement with GeoPartners Limited to advance offshore survey activities in the Liberia and Harper Basins.”

According to Jaleiba, GeoPartners will conduct a multibeam seep survey involving seabed mapping technology designed to identify geological features that may indicate the presence of hydrocarbons beneath the ocean floor. Under the agreement, GeoPartners will acquire, process, and market survey data collected within designated offshore areas.

NOCAL also announced a separate agreement with Searcher Geodata UK Ltd to acquire, process, and market new 3D seismic data offshore Liberia. The company has reportedly been granted exclusive rights to market and license the data for seven years under a multi-client survey arrangement intended to attract international exploration companies.

Jaleiba said the agreements would ensure the continued collection of reliable technical data needed to support future exploration decisions and encourage investment in Liberia’s offshore sector.

Legal Questions Surface

The announcements have triggered concerns among civil society actors and legal observers who argue that the agreements may effectively grant reconnaissance and geophysical survey rights without authorization from the LPRA, the statutory regulator responsible for overseeing petroleum activities.

The Liberia Early Warning Watch (LEW-Watch), a civil society monitoring institution, questioned the legality of the arrangements, arguing that the contracts appear to authorize activities that fall under Liberia’s petroleum licensing regime.

“The contracts grant the two firms rights to conduct offshore geophysical surveys across the Liberia and Harper Basins—activities that Liberia’s petroleum law reserves for companies licensed by the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority,” the organization said in a statement.

According to LEW-Watch, both the multibeam seep survey and the proposed 3D seismic acquisition qualify as “reconnaissance” activities under Liberia’s Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Reform Law, which defines reconnaissance as the acquisition of geological, geophysical, and geochemical data for petroleum assessment purposes.

The group cited Section 11.1 of the law, which requires any company seeking to conduct reconnaissance activities to obtain a reconnaissance license from the LPRA before operations begin.

Exclusive Rights Raise Additional Concerns

LEW-Watch further argued that the Searcher agreement raises additional legal questions because it grants the company seven years of exclusive rights to market and license offshore seismic data.

The organization pointed to Section 12.2 of the Petroleum Law, which provides that exclusive reconnaissance licenses may only be awarded through a competitive bidding process conducted by the LPRA, including bidder prequalification and formal evaluation procedures.

“There is no public record indicating that such a process was conducted,” the organization stated, adding that the arrangement could undermine the safeguards intended to ensure transparency and competition in the management of Liberia’s petroleum resources.

NOCAL Defends Agreements

NOCAL President and Chief Executive Officer Fabian Michael Lai has rejected claims that the corporation acted outside its legal mandate.

In comments provided to FrontPage Africa, Lai argued that Sections 11 and 12 of the Petroleum Law recognize a role for NOCAL in the administration of reconnaissance activities and related petroleum data management functions.

“Section 11 of the Petroleum Law provides that any company may apply for a reconnaissance license,” Lai said.

He further noted that the law assigns NOCAL responsibilities in the administration of reconnaissance licenses, participation in bid evaluations, and receipt of financial benefits generated through the licensing process.

According to Lai, these provisions create a conflict of interest that would make it inappropriate for NOCAL itself to apply directly for a reconnaissance license.

“If NOCAL applies for a reconnaissance license, it would be managing a license it owns, participating in the evaluation process, and benefiting from decisions in which it is involved,” Lai argued. “This creates a conflict of interest, raises questions of fairness, and increases the risk of legal challenge.”

Lai maintained that the law instead contemplates NOCAL’s participation through joint ventures, partnerships, and commercial arrangements with specialized technical firms.

He stressed that the agreements with GeoPartners and Searcher should not be interpreted as transfers of sovereign petroleum rights.

“NOCAL recognizes the important regulatory role of the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority,” the corporation said in a statement. “At the same time, the NOCAL Act and related petroleum legislation confer operational, commercial, and petroleum data management responsibilities on NOCAL, including responsibilities for the administration and commercialization of petroleum-related technical data.”

NOCAL further argued that the use of specialized contractors and commercial data partners is standard practice across the international petroleum industry and does not automatically amount to the transfer of regulatory authority.

LPRA Reasserts Regulatory Mandate

While not directly naming NOCAL, the LPRA issued a strongly worded statement reaffirming its authority over petroleum licensing and reconnaissance activities.

The Authority emphasized that seismic surveys, basin studies, subsurface data acquisition, geoscientific assessments, and related petroleum evaluations are governed by Part IV of the Petroleum Law and therefore require compliance with LPRA-administered licensing requirements.

“Activities involving seismic surveys, basin studies, subsurface data acquisition, geo-scientific assessments, or similar technical petroleum evaluations fall within the reconnaissance framework established under Part IV of the Petroleum Law and are therefore subject to the applicable licensing and regulatory requirements administered by LPRA,” the Authority stated.

LPRA urged all operators, contractors, technical partners, and investors intending to undertake petroleum-related activities in Liberia to engage the regulator and secure all necessary approvals before commencing operations.

Implications for Liberia’s Energy Sector

The dispute has revived longstanding questions about the division of responsibilities between NOCAL and the LPRA under Liberia’s petroleum governance framework.

While LPRA serves as the sector’s independent regulator, NOCAL functions as the state-owned oil company with commercial and advisory responsibilities. The apparent disagreement over the interpretation of the Petroleum Law now threatens to create uncertainty at a time when Liberia is seeking to attract renewed investment in offshore exploration.

Energy sector observers warn that conflicting public positions from the two institutions could complicate efforts to market Liberia’s offshore potential and raise concerns among prospective investors regarding regulatory certainty.

“There is a need for the Legislature to step in and resolve this brewing tension by revisiting the law to correct and make clear any ambiguity or conflicting clauses,” said an energy expert.

As scrutiny intensifies, key questions remain unresolved: Did NOCAL exceed its legal authority by entering into offshore survey agreements without LPRA authorization, or is the corporation acting within a legitimate interpretation of its statutory mandate?

The answer may ultimately determine not only the future relationship between NOCAL and LPRA, but also investor confidence in Liberia’s offshore petroleum governance regime.

• ANC Petitions LACC to Probe Secretive Multimillion-Dollar Foya Villa Project Funded by State Enterprises
• Opposition party demands answers over government’s flip-flopping on ownership, procurement, and financing of luxury complex shielded from public scrutiny

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

Monrovia – The Alternative National Congress (ANC) has formally petitioned the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to launch an immediate investigation into a multimillion-dollar construction project in Foya, Lofa County — a complex of what witnesses describe as luxurious villas that the government initially denied funding before President Joseph Boakai reversed course and admitted public money was involved.

In a letter dated May 25, 2026, signed by Secretary General Desmond U. Nimely and approved by Chairman Cllr. Lafayette E. O. Gould, the ANC called the project a potential blueprint for how not to spend public money — conducted in secrecy, contradicted by officials, and apparently financed through State-Owned Enterprises without legislative oversight or competitive bidding.

From “National Secret” to Presidential Admission

The project, officially branded the Mano River Union Center for Regional Peace and Development, first came to light not through any government announcement, but through civil society group NAYMOTE-Liberia.

In early September 2024, NAYMOTE Executive Director Eddie Jarwolo published aerial photos suggesting that a lavish multi-unit villa complex — allegedly valued at over US$10 million — was quietly being built in Foya by MUSNS Groups Incorporated, a firm led by Joe Gene Mulbah, a known associate of the president. Construction reportedly began on September 10, 2024, under the supervision of engineer Edward Yamba, though no budget line, procurement approval, or source of financing has ever been publicly disclosed. Jarwolo questioned the rationale behind such a large-scale project deep in the forest.

The government’s initial response only deepened suspicion. Deputy Information Minister Daniel Sando claimed on the Closing Argument talk show that the project was funded by the Mano River Union (MRU) and had no personal link to the president. Less than a week later, Sando walked back that statement, saying he could not confirm MRU’s involvement — leaving the project’s origins even murkier.

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai eventually broke his silence during a live interview on state broadcaster ELBC, insisting the development is a legitimate MRU peacebuilding initiative and dismissing claims that it was intended for his personal benefit.

“The project in Foya is for peacebuilding in the sub-region. It is an international project intended to prepare Foya as a place where crises can be resolved and where international meetings can also take place,” Boakai said.

The president also claimed the initiative was launched without his knowledge. “It is not a Joseph Boakai project. In fact, it started without my knowledge. You can go there — there is nothing in my name,” he said.

On why the project was initially kept from public view, Boakai suggested those behind it deliberately withheld the information from him. “They knew very well that I would have resisted it at the beginning because I did not want anything done in Foya that could be interpreted as being for me,” he said. “But this is not a private project.”

His explanation, however, satisfied few critics. Questions immediately arose about how much each MRU member state is contributing, the source of the funds, whether financing involves loans, and applicable interest and repayment terms. Boakai’s admission that the project proceeded without his knowledge intensified scrutiny further, prompting questions about who authorized such a major undertaking on the government’s behalf.

“I think these clarifications are leaving more room for questions,” said a leading civil society activist who requested anonymity. “The President appears to be saying that a major decision like this can be taken without his consent.”

The activist added that the MRU itself must now speak out. “Citizens deserve to know the full details of this project,” the activist said.

SOEs as a Shadow Budget?

According to the ANC’s petition, financing for the project is said to have been drawn from contributions by NASSCORP, the National Port Authority (NPA), the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), and the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) — all state-owned enterprises accountable to Liberian taxpayers.

The opposition party argues this arrangement may have allowed the government to fund a massive project without standard appropriations scrutiny, raising questions about whether the Public Financial Management Act, the Public Procurement and Concessions Act, and anti-corruption statutes were violated.

“The project may have bypassed mandatory procurement and competitive bidding procedures established under the PPCC Act,” the ANC said in its petition, adding that “public resources under the control of SOEs may have been redirected absent transparent disclosure, legislative oversight, or independent auditing mechanisms.”

The party further argued that the series of contradictory public statements about the project’s ownership, funding sources, purpose, and total cost “have materially undermined public trust and raised legitimate suspicion of potential abuse of public office and misuse of state resources.”

Six Demands to the LACC

The ANC’s petition calls on the anti-corruption body to launch a full-scale probe into the project’s financing, procurement, and contracting; determine whether any laws were broken; identify all officials, contractors, and intermediaries involved; examine all financial transfers and SOE disbursements tied to the project; recommend criminal, civil, or administrative action where warranted; and publish its findings in full.

The ANC stressed that its petition is not aimed at blocking legitimate national development or regional cooperation. “Development must always proceed within the framework of constitutional governance, fiscal transparency, procurement integrity, and the rule of law,” the party said.

“Liberia’s democratic future depends not merely upon what projects are undertaken, but how they are undertaken. No public official, institution, or political interest should be permitted to operate above the law or beyond public scrutiny.”

The LACC had not publicly responded to the petition as of the time of publication. The Boakai administration has similarly not issued a detailed accounting of total project costs, the contract award process, or the legal authority under which SOE funds were redirected.

Monrovia – The Director General of the Civil Service Agency (CSA), Dr. Josiah F. Joekai Jr., is facing mounting public criticism and growing calls for his dismissal following his appearance at a political rally organized by Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah in support of President Joseph Boakai’s anticipated 2029 re-election bid.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

The political gathering, held Sunday in Monrovia under the banner of the National Independent Movement for Boakai (NIMBO), drew a huge crowd and featured President Boakai alongside several government officials, including Dr. Joekai. Videos and photos circulating on social media showed the CSA boss wearing NIMBO-branded attire and dancing during the rally.

The appearance has sparked controversy, with critics accusing Dr. Joekai of violating the political neutrality expected of civil servants under Liberia’s Code of Conduct and CSA regulations.

Opponents argue that Joekai’s participation in the political event undermines the integrity and independence of the civil service, particularly because he heads the institution responsible for enforcing discipline and neutrality within the public sector.

Among the strongest critics was Gbarpolu County Senator Amara Konneh, who condemned what he described as a dangerous trend of civil servants openly engaging in partisan politics.

Senator Konneh recalled similar incidents under previous administrations in which public officials were dismissed for allegedly violating the Code of Conduct through partisan activities.

Konneh said Liberia’s political history continues to reflect a troubling cycle in which public servants lose their jobs whenever political power changes hands.

Konneh recalled that in 2018, several current Unity Party (UP) officials allegedly lost their positions after the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) came to power because of their perceived loyalty to the former ruling establishment.

He also pointed to recent dismissals carried out under the current UP-led administration, noting that several CDC officials, civil servants, and security personnel were removed from their positions for participating in political rallies while wearing party regalia.

According to him, those dismissals affected employees of the Executive Protection Service (EPS) and the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC), with the government justifying the actions as necessary to prevent civil servants from violating public service conduct policies.

Konneh further disclosed that a communication sent to the Liberian Senate seeking the reinstatement of dismissed MCC employees remains stalled before the Senate Labor Committee.

The senator warned that unless Liberia breaks the cycle of politically motivated dismissals, public servants will continue to face uncertainty and victimization whenever administrations change.

“Today, we notice some Unity Party government officials and civil servants, including the Director-General of the CSA, wearing regalia in support of President Boakai,” Senator Konneh stated. “I wonder what will happen to their jobs and livelihoods when power changes again.”

Konneh warned that such actions risk deepening political divisions and fueling a culture of political victimization in government institutions.

“Power will eventually end,” he said. “The real question is, what do you do with it while you have it? When do we put an end to targeting each other because of their political affiliations and begin to see the Liberian in each of us?”

The criticism intensified after Bong County District #3 Representative Marvin Cole publicly called for Dr. Joekai’s immediate dismissal.

“At that rally, there was a startling revelation,” Rep. Cole said. “The Director General of the Civil Service Agency attended the event wearing the uniform and emblem of the National Independent Movement to Support Boakai.”

Cole described Joekai’s conduct as incompatible with the standards expected of the head of Liberia’s civil service.

“Today I am calling on the President to immediately dismiss Josiah Joekai and for him to resign from the Liberia civil service,” Cole declared. “He has breached the criteria. He has desecrated the civil service. He has repeatedly warned others against wearing party materials while serving in government.”

The lawmaker further accused Joekai of previously dismissing public employees for alleged partisan involvement.

“For months and weeks, Josiah Joekai removed thousands of Liberians from the civil service payroll,” Cole alleged. “Some were accused of participating in political activities or being politically affiliated.”

Cole also called on President Boakai to take action.

“Mr. President, if you did not see it, may God open your eyes,” he said. “You and Josiah Joekai sat on the same platform while he violated the Code of Conduct that prohibits government officials from participating in political rallies or using party materials.”

Bishop Kortu Brown, former Liberia Council of Churches President, also joined the growing chorus demanding accountability.

“Josiah Joekai has to go,” Brown asserted.

“If he enforced CSA guidelines against other civil servants for participating in political activities, he cannot do the same thing and remain in office. He needs to explain himself.”

Brown emphasized that Liberia’s civil service must remain politically neutral if democratic institutions are to maintain public confidence.

“The Civil Service Agency must be above politics, as the Director General himself has repeatedly advocated. Tell Josiah that Bishop Brown says he should pack his bags and leave if he has violated the regulation,” Brown said.

He urged President Boakai to order an investigation into the matter and review previous dismissals linked to political activities.

“If the President investigates and acts accordingly, it would restore ordinary Liberians’ confidence in the CSA, especially if the same standards applied to others are applied to Joekai,” Brown added.

The controversy has triggered broader national debate over whether the Boakai administration is consistently enforcing rules governing political conduct by public officials.

Part Five of Liberia’s Code of Conduct for public officials states that officials appointed by the President “shall not engage in political activities, canvass, or contest for elected offices,” nor use government resources to support partisan activities or serve on campaign teams.

As of press time, Dr. Joekai had not publicly responded to the criticism or the growing calls for his resignation.

Monrovia – A newly proposed law to establish a regulatory agency for Liberia’s seaports is drawing intense criticism from policy experts who warn it will inflate the cost of doing business, create governance confusion, and tarnish the country’s maritime reputation.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

The proposed Liberia Sea and Land Port Regulatory Act, which recently passed the Senate and is now before the House of Representatives for concurrence, has been derided as a “dangerous law” by critics. Ambulah Mamey, a noted policy expert, argues that the Act gives the new agency a dual role—both regulator and port operator—creating a glaring conflict of interest. “It is like appointing a referee who is also a player in the same game,” Mamey said in an open policy memo addressed to the Speaker and Members of the House.

A key point of contention is Section 48 of the proposed Act. The provision authorizes the new agency to “acquire, establish, and improve port or harbor facilities and operate and maintain such port or harbor facilities” within available appropriations. Mamey contends that this authority directly conflicts with Liberia’s best practices, which require a clear separation between regulatory and commercial functions to avoid conflicts of interest and ensure accountability. “The Senate is making the proposed Port Regulator both a referee and a player in the seaport sector. This is shocking because the same Senate is currently holding hearings to prevent the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Company from acting in both roles in the petroleum sector,” he noted.

Historically, reforms in Liberia’s state-owned enterprises have aimed to separate regulatory oversight from commercial activities. For instance, while the Liberia Telecommunications Authority regulates the telecom sector, LIBTELCO handles service provision; similarly, the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority (LPRA) oversees the sector while NOCAL manages commercial operations; and the Liberia Energy Regulatory Agency (LERC) regulates, leaving the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) to handle commercial activities. Critics argue that this proven model is at risk under the new Act.

Mamey’s memo further highlights that the proposed law significantly overlaps with more than five key functions of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA). Responsibilities such as enforcing the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Convention on Dangerous Goods, implementing various IMO conventions, setting maritime training standards, and enforcing maritime insurance regulations are already under LiMA’s purview. The duplication, Mamey warns, will confuse both domestic stakeholders and international maritime bodies trying to determine ultimate authority in Liberia.

Another major concern is the fiscal impact of the proposed Act. Section 306 outlines a funding mechanism that relies on a mix of national budget allocations, additional port user fees, and a mandatory 10% levy on revenue collected by port operators. “This fiscal model will increase the cost of importing goods, further straining an economy heavily dependent on imports,” Mamey explained. For ordinary Liberians, higher import costs mean increased prices for basic commodities.

Mamey also pointed to a matrix of fourteen African countries—including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone, and Senegal—that maintain regulatory functions within maritime authorities while delegating commercial operations to separate port authorities. In South Africa, for example, the Transnet National Port Authority exclusively manages commercial and operational functions, ensuring both efficiency and effective oversight. The World Bank’s Port Reform Toolkit similarly advises against excessive regulation, emphasizing the need for independent oversight to foster competition and avoid bureaucratic bottlenecks that stifle innovation.

In his memo, Mamey urged the Legislature to discontinue the creation of redundant institutions and instead focus on strengthening existing bodies. “Reforms should be about efficiency, not adding unnecessary layers of bureaucracy that conflict with the principles of good governance,” he stated. He recommended updating the existing Act of the National Port Authority (NPA) to modernize its governance structure and align it with global best practices. Additionally, he called for expedited action on the abandoned Single Window Initiative, which promises to streamline transactions at the seaports, making them faster, easier, and less costly for port users.

As the proposed law moves through the legislative process, lawmakers face a critical decision: whether to maintain the current regulatory framework that separates oversight from commercial operations or to risk the potential pitfalls of an unbundled system that could burden both the economy and Liberia’s maritime reputation.