Monrovia – Representative Anthony F. Williams of Maryland County Electoral District 2 has renewed his call for swift government action in response to the growing presence of illegal Burkinabe migrants in southeastern Liberia.
By Francis G. Boayue
In a formal communication delivered to the plenary of the House of Representatives on Thursday, Rep. Williams urged the body to invite key government agencies to address the situation.
He recommended that the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC), the Ministry of Justice, the Liberia National Police (LNP), Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Agriculture, and the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) be called to explain their strategies for managing the influx of undocumented Burkinabe nationals.
Williams expressed deep concern about reports suggesting that these migrants are involved in the illegal production of single-barrel guns, raising alarm about potential security risks to the local population.
He noted that communities have raised issues regarding land encroachment, unauthorized farming, mining, hunting, and pit sawing activities in their areas, all allegedly carried out without proper documentation.
“The presence of Burkinabe nationals has been an ongoing issue in Liberia, and it poses serious security threats,” Rep. Williams warned. “We must address this issue urgently, as it mirrors the early stages of the conflict in Mali today.”
He highlighted that many of the Burkinabe migrants have settled in the forest regions near the Ivorian-Liberian border, increasing the risk of land disputes and environmental degradation.
Williams also drew attention to the historical involvement of Burkinabe nationals in Liberia’s civil conflict, suggesting that the porous border could enable the resurgence of external security threats.
The lawmaker cautioned that immediate action was necessary to avoid social unrest and potential xenophobic reactions from Liberian citizens.
“We must act quickly to prevent tension and unrest,” he said. “With limited resources for border protection, it is essential that we coordinate efforts among all relevant agencies.”
Rep. Williams called for the government to take decisive measures to address illegal immigration, bolster border security, and ensure that all residents of Liberia comply with the law.
Following his appeal, the House of Representatives forwarded the matter to its leadership for further investigation and potential action.
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