Canada- Political Commentator and Human Rights Advocate Stanley Quaye has called on President Joseph Boakai to immediately dismiss the Minister of Local Government, citing concerns over his Involvement in alleged illegal gold mining activities in the Makona River, which he says are fueling tensions along the Liberia–Guinea Border.
Mr. Quaye statement follows similar comment from Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) Secretary General Jefferson Koijee at which time the Local Government Minister said he does not have respond based on the allegation against him.
According to Mr. Quaye, the situation escalated into a national security issue, as Guinean authorities have reportedly raised complaints about the conduct of Liberian officials including Local Government operating in the disputed area.
He stated that after engaging several Guinean diplomatic sources, he was informed that individuals believed to be linked to Liberian authorities have been involved in unauthorized mining operations within the Makona River.
Mr. Quaye argued that such activities not only violate international norms but also undermine Liberia’s credibility in managing its natural resources and maintaining peaceful relations with its neighbors.
He stressed that the Makona River, which serves as a natural boundary between Liberia and Guinea, is a sensitive zone that requires strict adherence to bilateral agreements and environmental protections.
“The alleged involvement of government officials in illegal mining is deeply troubling,” Mr. Quaye said.
“It sends the wrong signal and risks escalating a manageable situation into a full-blown border dispute.”
He further urged President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to take swift and decisive action by removing the Local Government Minister, Francis Sakila Nyumalin, whom he holds responsible for the just ended border dispute.
Mr. Quaye emphasized that accountability at the highest levels of government is necessary to restore confidence both domestically and internationally.
The Makona River has long been a point of shared interest between Liberia and Guinea, particularly due to its natural resources.
However, tensions have occasionally flared over access and control, making cooperation between the two nations essential.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Office of the President or the Local Government regarding the allegations.
