Washington, D.C.—The Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA) has commended the Liberian House of Representatives for approving significant amendments to the Liberian Aliens and Nationality Law of 2022.
The revisions remove restrictive clauses that previously barred Liberians with dual citizenship from holding elective positions, allowing for broader political participation.
This landmark decision safeguards the rights of natural-born Liberians who have acquired citizenship in other countries. The revised law now permits them to engage fully in Liberia’s political processes without having to renounce their second nationality.
ULAA in a statement believes the change acknowledges the reality of Liberia’s diaspora community, which has made valuable contributions to the country’s development. In the statement, ULAA National President, Mr. Mohammad ‘MSGI’ Keita, praised the Liberian government, adding that, “We commend the Speaker of the House Hon. J. Fonati Koffa, Hon. Musa Bility (sponsor of the bill), and the entire House of Representatives for taking this progressive step.
Continuing, Mr. Keita added: “Recognizing the contributions of Liberians with dual citizenship is crucial for our nation’s growth. We also extend our gratitude to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for collaborating with the legislature to make this a reality.”
He emphasized that the amendment aligns with modern principles of reciprocity and inclusivity, allowing the diaspora community to engage more fully in Liberia’s political and economic development.
“In addition to addressing dual citizenship, the new law streamlines naturalization processes, removes outdated regulations, and promotes the employment of Liberians”, Mr. Keita said.
The ULAA’s release issued by its secretary general, Borbi Bropleh, urged continued cooperation between the Liberian government and its diaspora communities. The organization called on Liberians worldwide to celebrate this victory, reaffirming the sentiment, stating that, “Once a Liberian, always a Liberian.”
Legislative Milestone
ULAA, however, praised last week’s unanimous approval of amendments to the Aliens and Nationality Law of 2022 by the House of Representatives.
The revised law eliminates previous restrictions that required dual citizens to renounce their other nationality before running for elective office. The move addresses criticisms that these restrictions were discriminatory and outdated, particularly given the circumstances of Liberians living in the diaspora.
Under the original law, dual citizens were allowed to retain their Liberian citizenship but faced limitations when seeking elective positions. The new amendments eliminate this requirement, making it easier for Liberians abroad to serve their country in various political roles.
In addition to facilitating dual citizenship, the updated law grants the Justice Minister authority to challenge an individual’s citizenship under certain conditions. It also modernizes the naturalization process, removing references reminiscent of Liberia’s colonial era, and aligns Liberia’s laws with international standards of reciprocity.
Representative Musa Bility, the sponsor of the bill, disclosed that the amendments aim to harmonize the Aliens and Nationality Law with Liberia’s 1986 Constitution.
He noted that the revised law will provide a modern legal framework to address regulatory, policy, and operational aspects of citizenship.
“The new law complies with Articles 27 and 28 of our Constitution,” Bility explained. “It amends provisions of the Aliens and Nationality Act of 2022 to create a viable legal framework that addresses the needs of modern Liberia, taking into account contemporary regulatory and administrative realities.”
The amendment comes after widespread criticism of the initial 2022 law, which some said unfairly excluded Liberians in the diaspora from participating in their country’s political future. By revising these provisions, the government has responded to calls for greater inclusivity and fairness.
About ULAA
The Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA) is the umbrella organization for all Liberian communities in the Americas. It has been at the forefront of advocacy for Liberian citizens at home and abroad, promoting unity and development under the motto, “Together we struggle for a better Liberia.”
