Liberia: President Boakai Signs Three Executive Orders, Raising Implementation Concerns

Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Monday signed three Executive Orders, a move that has left many Liberians questioning the implementation process.

According to an Executive Mansion press release, the orders include Executive Order #141 – Mandatory Firearm Registration, Executive Order #142 – Streamlining Revenue Collection on International Travel and Executive Order #143 – Protection of Liberia’s Beachfronts, Waterways, and Wetlands.

Mandatory Firearm Registration

Executive Order #141 mandates the registration of all firearms in civilian possession to strengthen national security and public safety.

“This order comes in response to the growing national security threats posed by illicit firearms, including military-style weapons, which have contributed to rising incidents of armed violence, armed robberies, and other criminal activities,” the Executive Mansion stated.

The proliferation of unregulated small arms poses significant risks to Liberia’s peace, security, and economic development. Under the order, all individuals in possession of military-style weapons and single-barrel guns must register and obtain a permit and license from the Liberia National Commission on Arms (LiNCA) and the Liberia National Police (LNP) within 12 months of the order’s effective date.

The order aligns with Liberia’s commitments under international and regional arms control agreements, including the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty and the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons.

Streamlining Revenue Collection on International Travel

Executive Order #142 suspends the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on international travel services and replaces it with a fixed levy on airline tickets for passengers departing Liberia.

“The decision is part of the Government’s commitment to strengthening revenue mobilization while addressing the persistent challenges associated with the collection of GST on airline tickets, particularly those purchased online,” the statement read.

The new measure aims to minimize revenue leakages, ensure a more transparent and efficient collection process, and sustain economic growth.

Protecting Liberia’s Beachfronts, Waterways, and Wetlands

Executive Order #143 underscores the government’s commitment to protecting Liberia’s natural resources, mitigating environmental degradation, and ensuring public health and economic sustainability.

“With growing concerns over pollution, erosion, and climate change, the Executive Order seeks to curb harmful activities that threaten marine and terrestrial ecosystems,” the statement added.

President Boakai emphasized that unchecked encroachment and pollution of wetlands, waterways, and beachfronts pose significant risks to both the environment and the livelihoods of Liberians.

While the Executive Orders aim to address key national challenges, concerns remain about their enforcement and the government’s ability to implement them effectively.