smartnews, Author at Liberia News Network https://liberianewsnetwork.com/author/smartnews/ News from credible and reliable Liberian news sources Sun, 26 Apr 2026 20:50:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lnn.jpg smartnews, Author at Liberia News Network https://liberianewsnetwork.com/author/smartnews/ 32 32 Lra Communication Manager Appointed To Regional Tax Body In Nigeria, Boosting Liberia’s Profile https://liberianewsnetwork.com/lra-communication-manager-appointed-to-regional-tax-body-in-nigeria-boosting-liberias-profile/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/lra-communication-manager-appointed-to-regional-tax-body-in-nigeria-boosting-liberias-profile/#respond Sun, 26 Apr 2026 20:45:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/lra-communication-manager-appointed-to-regional-tax-body-in-nigeria-boosting-liberias-profile/ MONROVIA – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has further enhanced its growing international reputation following the appointment of its Manager for Communication, Media and Public Affairs, Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, to…

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MONROVIA – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has further enhanced its growing international reputation following the appointment of its Manager for Communication, Media and Public Affairs, Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, to the West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) in Abuja, Nigeria.

Mr. Sengbeh has been selected to serve as Manager for Communication and Liaison at WATAF, where he succeeds Ms. Tochukwu Sandra Onyemata. His appointment represents a major milestone for both Liberia and the LRA, as he becomes the first Liberian and the first official from the institution to hold the position.

The selection came after a highly competitive international recruitment process, highlighting Mr. Sengbeh’s professional credentials as well as the increasing recognition of the LRA within regional tax administration circles.

Observers say the development reflects the LRA’s deliberate efforts to position itself as a center of technical expertise in West Africa through the strategic placement of qualified professionals in regional institutions.

This is not the first time the LRA has exported talent beyond Liberia’s borders. In 2024, L. Daniel Jaiblai was seconded to the Gambia Revenue Authority, where he provided post-clearance audit support that reportedly contributed to stronger revenue performance in The Gambia.

Mr. Jaiblai has since transitioned to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), where he now supports regional transparency and development initiatives. Similarly, former LRA Commissioner for Domestic Tax, Darlingston Y. Talery, joined ECOWAS as Head of the Domestic Resource Mobilization Sector and was later appointed to the United Nations Committee of Experts on International Cooperation in Tax Matters.

At WATAF, Mr. Sengbeh is expected to lead communication initiatives aimed at improving institutional visibility, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and building stronger partnerships with the media across West Africa. His role will also contribute to shaping regional discussions on tax administration, transparency, and domestic resource mobilization.

The secondment is for an initial period of 24 months, with the possibility of extension, and forms part of WATAF’s broader program to build tax administration capacity among member states through structured staff exchanges.

Welcoming the appointment, LRA Commissioner General James Dorbor Jallah described it as a proud achievement for both the institution and Liberia. “He has all it takes to excel at the regional level and make the LRA proud,” Jallah said, while encouraging staff members to strive for excellence and prepare themselves for future international opportunities.

Before his appointment, Mr. Sengbeh spent nearly ten years leading the LRA’s Communication, Media and Public Affairs Section, where he led national tax awareness campaigns, journalist training programs, and transparency initiatives under the Freedom of Information framework. He also served as an adjunct lecturer at the University of Liberia, where he was recognized as Outstanding Faculty for the 2023/2024 academic years.

With a Master’s degree in Media and Communication Studies from Lund University and more than two decades of experience in journalism and strategic communication, Mr. Sengbeh’s appointment is being viewed as another sign that Liberia is steadily gaining credibility and influence in regional tax governance.

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Dr. Gray Rebuts Critics Over Scholarship Decision, Claims Vindication Following Scholars’ Success https://liberianewsnetwork.com/dr-gray-rebuts-critics-over-scholarship-decision-claims-vindication-following-scholars-success/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/dr-gray-rebuts-critics-over-scholarship-decision-claims-vindication-following-scholars-success/#respond Sun, 26 Apr 2026 00:06:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/dr-gray-rebuts-critics-over-scholarship-decision-claims-vindication-following-scholars-success/ By Emmanuel Koffa Barclayville, Grand Kru County — Former Acting President of Grand Kru Technical College, Josephus Gray, has launched a sharp and unapologetic response to critics who once opposed…

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By Emmanuel Koffa

Barclayville, Grand Kru County — Former Acting President of Grand Kru Technical College, Josephus Gray, has launched a sharp and unapologetic response to critics who once opposed his administration’s decision to sponsor two staff members for advanced studies abroad.

In a strongly worded reflection, Gray described the backlash he faced as “unjust,” “misguided,” and driven by individuals who attempted to undermine progress in Grand Kru County.

He argued that education remains the backbone of national development and warned against what he characterized as deliberate efforts to obstruct opportunities for growth.

“At no point should anyone position themselves as a barrier to the light of education,” Gray asserted, emphasizing that advanced learning is essential to unlocking the county’s future.

The controversy centered on scholarships awarded to William H.S. Doe of Barclayville and Robert Nyema of Garaway—a move Gray said was met with relentless criticism, condemnation, and what he described as “daily attacks” from both within and outside the college community.

Despite the resistance, Gray stood firm, facilitating their enrollment at Sharda University in India, citing that the decision was never about convenience, but about long-term human capital development for the institution and the county at large.

Now, with both scholars having successfully completed their studies, Gray says the outcome has exposed the flaws in the arguments made against him.

“Those criticisms are now meaningless,” he stated bluntly, adding that the very individuals who once condemned the initiative are now beneficiaries of the pride it has brought.

Gray also accused some critics of attempting to tarnish reputations through false allegations, warning that such actions do more harm than good to a struggling educational system.

He doubled down on his leadership stance, stating that the opposition only strengthened his resolve to continue creating opportunities for others.

“This was never about popularity—it was about progress,” he declared.

The former College Acting President called on citizens to abandon negativity and instead support initiatives that foster growth, urging a shift away from “persistent condemnation and false innuendos” toward unity and development.

“Education is light,” he concluded, “and advanced education is a brighter light.”

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Printing Of 79 Billion Dollars: Why It Risks Deepening Poverty And What Liberia Must Do Instead https://liberianewsnetwork.com/printing-of-79-billion-dollars-why-it-risks-deepening-poverty-and-what-liberia-must-do-instead/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/printing-of-79-billion-dollars-why-it-risks-deepening-poverty-and-what-liberia-must-do-instead/#respond Fri, 24 Apr 2026 09:47:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/printing-of-79-billion-dollars-why-it-risks-deepening-poverty-and-what-liberia-must-do-instead/ By Tiawan Saye Gongloe How do we explain the current situation in Liberia, where, unlike other Central Banks around the world that are tightening their monetary policies to reduce the…

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By Tiawan Saye Gongloe

How do we explain the current situation in Liberia, where, unlike other Central Banks around the world that are tightening their monetary policies to reduce the money supply, our own Central Bank is both tightening policies and concurrently injecting more currency into the economy?

Liberia is faced with a critical policy decision that has significant implications for the everyday lives of its citizens. This decision involves the extensive printing of Liberian dollars in an economy that is already struggling with low production levels and an over-reliance on imported goods. Such a choice raises pressing concerns that extend beyond technical measures; it will likely have negative effects on the cost of basic necessities, such as rice and transportation, as well as the overall purchasing power of every Liberian worker’s salary.

Inflation may rise as an increase in the money supply could devalue the currency, leading to higher prices for essential goods. Moreover, families might find it increasingly difficult to stretch their budgets, resulting in greater financial pressures and potential hardships. The impact of these decisions will resonate across the nation, influencing daily life and the economic stability of households in Liberia for years to come.

Printing money without a corresponding increase in production does not equate to genuine economic development; rather, it functions as a concealed tax that disproportionately impacts the poor. When the money supply expands at a rate that exceeds the economy’s capacity to produce goods and services, the effects are predictable and detrimental. In this scenario, more currency competes for the same limited supply of essential items like food, fuel, and basic necessities, leading to a consistent rise in prices. This inflation makes everyday staples, such as a bag of rice, increasingly expensive. Additionally, transport fares escalate, making it harder for individuals to afford commuting costs. School fees become a struggling expense for families, and necessary medications may slip out of financial reach. For people living on fixed incomes or those earning modest wages, these economic shifts are not mere theoretical adjustments; they manifest significant and persistent hardships in their daily lives.

To illustrate this concept, let’s consider a simplified economic scenario. Imagine an economy that produces $10 million worth of goods, represented by 1 million pens priced at $10 each. In this case, the total money supply equals $10 million. If the government decides to double the money supply to $20 million without increasing the production of goods, we still have only 1 million pens available. With more money in circulation, individuals may feel wealthier, leading to increased demand for pens. As demand rises, manufacturers and retailers respond by raising prices. Consequently, each pen could sell for $20 instead of $10. Therefore, while the nominal value of the economy increases to $20 million, the actual quantity of goods remains fixed at 1 million pens. This scenario clearly demonstrates that printing more money results in inflated prices, while the availability of goods does not change.

The wealthy and financially stable are often able to navigate these economic fluctuations. They typically hold valuable assets such as real estate, stocks, or U.S. dollars, which can retain their value and act as a buffer against inflation. However, for the average Liberian—the schoolteacher working long hours, the nurse providing essential health services, the petty trader trying to make ends meet, the police, immigration, Drug enforcement and fire service officer as well as the civil servant with a modest salary—the financial dynamics are markedly different. These individuals earn and save in Liberian dollars, which are susceptible to rapid devaluation during inflationary periods. When prices go up at a rate higher than the income of these citizens of Liberia their purchasing power drops sharply. What may appear as a policy adjustment in the capital city of Monrovia translates into great suffering, hunger, and hardship in local communities throughout the country. This shows how the insidious growth of poverty can occur without any explicit new laws being passed, as everyday necessities become increasingly unaffordable for Liberians who are already struggling to survive.

The danger in Liberia is compounded by its economic structure. The country relies heavily on imports for many essentials, such as rice, fuel, medicine, and manufactured goods. When more Liberian dollars are put into circulation, the demand for U.S. dollars increases. This leads to a weaker exchange rate, making imports more expensive. Consequently, inflation rises. This creates a vicious cycle: a weaker currency drives up prices, and higher prices increases poverty.

When both the balance of trade and the balance of payments are negative—as has been the case for a long time—simply printing more local currency does not generate wealth. Instead, it increases scarcity and transforms an existing vulnerability into a significant economic strain. In such circumstances, creating money without corresponding production is not an economic rescue plan. It is a deliberate design to increase poverty ; it is harmful.

I present this analysis not only as a concerned citizen but also as someone who has had firsthand experience teaching basic principles of economics at the University of Liberia for nearly a decade during the 1980s. Even at that academic level, we underscored a fundamental principle of economics: an oversupply of money in an economy, especially one characterized by low productivity levels, inevitably leads to severe consequences, including inflation, currency depreciation, and economic hardship for a majority of the people. This is not an advanced theory ; it forms the very foundation of sound economic practice. Consequently, this brings forth a critical and pressing question: Are the economists currently advising the government providing genuine, professional, and technically astute counsel? Or are policy decisions being influenced by short-term political agendas that jeopardize the long-term economic stability of the nation?

Africa presents us with sobering lessons in this regard. Numerous countries have expanded their money supply in an attempt to stimulate growth without simultaneously strengthening their production capacities, and they have paid a heavy price for this oversight.

For instance, some time ago in Zimbabwe, the government resorted to excessive money printing in an effort to fund its spending initiatives, which led to catastrophic hyperinflation. This financial crisis wiped out savings for countless individuals and pushed millions of Zimbabweans into extreme poverty, a stark reminder of the dangers of mismanaged monetary policy.

Similarly, some time ago in Ghana, periods of fiscal expansion when coupled with external monetary pressures resulted in significant currency depreciation, further igniting rising living costs and forcing the population to undergo painful adjustments in their standard of living.

Nigeria offers another cautionary tale, having experienced repeated cycles of monetary expansion that failed to be matched by sufficient domestic production. This imbalance has led to a chronic weakening of the naira, driving inflation and heightening the economic struggles faced by ordinary citizens across the country. Such experiences are not mere historical accounts; they serve as urgent warnings about the repercussions of imprudent economic policies.

On the other hand, Africa also boast of a powerful success story that highlights what can be achieved through prudent governance and economic management. Botswana stands out as an exemple of discipline, integrity, and forward-thinking policies. Widely recognized as one of Africa’s least corrupt countries, Botswana has effectively managed its abundant natural resources—particularly diamonds—with strategic foresight and a long-term vision. Instead of merely exporting unprocessed resources, Botswana has focused on adding value to its raw wealth through thoughtful negotiations and investments in infrastructure and human capital. This approach has allowed the nation not only to create sustainable economic growth but also to significantly improve the quality of life for its citizens. By emphasizing the importance of responsible resource management and strategic planning, Botswana sets a benchmark that other African nations should emulate for lasting economic success and stability. The Liberian Government must learn from the Government of Botswana.

Botswana has established a commendable model for effective public sector management by maintaining a balanced salary structure across various roles. Unlike many nations, like Liberia, where the wage gap between top officials and essential public servants is very wide, Botswana has managed to keep the gap between the salaries of civil servants, teachers, law enforcement officers, and healthcare workers, and those of high-ranking government officials relatively narrow. This practice reflects a commitment to equity and shows that the country prioritizes the well-being of all its citizens over excessive consumption at the top echelons of power. Consequently, Botswana has consistently channeled resources into critical areas such as education, healthcare, food security, and infrastructure development, which are essential for long-term national growth.

The results of this strategic focus are unmistakable: Botswana has successfully moved up to middle-income status, a significant achievement when contrasted with Liberia, which remains one of the Twenty poorest countries not only in Africa but across the globe. It is crucial to note that Botswana did not rely on the easy route of printing more local currency to finance its development; instead, it achieved this remarkable transformation through discipline, increased production, value addition to its goods, and sound governance practices that foster economic stability and growth. How come a country that gained independence 119 years after Liberia’s independence is doing much better than Liberia? That is why when think about the way Liberia has been governed, I always as the question, “What kind of country is this?”

Liberia must pay close attention to these lessons, as well as to the warnings embedded within Botswana’s narrative. There exists only one reasonable justification for large-scale printing of Liberian dollars: the replacement of damaged or worn-out currency notes that are already in circulation. This form of monetary activity does not increase the overall money supply; it simply maintains the existing levels necessary to facilitate daily transactions. Any further expansion of the money supply should be intricately tied to genuine, measurable increases in domestic production—this includes growing more food to achieve self-sufficiency, enhancing local manufacturing capabilities to reduce reliance on imports, and creating more value within the nation’s economy across various sectors.

Importantly, it is necessary to confront a troubling truth: Liberia has been caught in a cycle of exporting its wealth in its rawest forms while importing poverty in return. For instance, we harvest our forests and export round logs, only to buy back elaborately crafted, expensive furniture from international markets. Similarly, we extract valuable minerals like gold and diamonds, ship them abroad unprocessed, and then import finished goods that have been manufactured elsewhere at significantly higher prices. We export rubber yet find ourselves purchasing sanitary gloves, tires and other products made out of natural rubber, instead. In these transactions, Liberia is surrendering its valuable resources, while only retaining a mere fraction of their economic worth. This reliance on exporting raw materials without sufficient value addition is not a sustainable economic strategy; it represents, in many ways, a form of economic surrender that must end.

If Liberia is truly serious about reducing poverty and improving the livelihoods of its citizens, it must significantly modify its current economic strategies. The first critical step is to halt the export of unprocessed round logs and instead invest in establishing a thriving domestic furniture industry. By doing so, Liberia will not only retain the value created from its timber resources but also create job opportunities for its citizens, increase government revenue, thereby strengthening the overall economy.

Additionally, Liberia must focus on adding value to its rich mineral wealth, particularly diamonds and gold. This can be achieved through local processing and certification, ensuring that these resources contribute more substantially to the national economy rather than merely leaving the country in raw forms. By retaining these processes domestically, Liberia can maximize revenue, foster local enterprise, and create high-paying jobs in the private sector. Moreover, significant investment in agriculture is crucial for achieving food security. By increasing the capacity to produce food domestically, Liberia can reduce import dependency, improve nutrition, and support local farmers.

When value is added locally across various sectors, it leads to job creation, rising incomes, and a strengthening of the national currency. This approach not only promotes individual and community prosperity but also fosters a robust economy that can withstand global market fluctuations.

True prosperity does not stem from simply increasing the money supply in circulation; it is rooted in enhancing our ability to produce and transform what we already possess. Increased production results in price stabilization, while a thriving industrial base leads to expanded employment opportunities. Improved export capabilities will ultimately strengthen the currency’s value in the global market. This comprehensive strategy is how genuine poverty alleviation can be achieved—not through the mere act of printing money but through the diligent creation of real economic value.

Liberia now finds itself at a crucial crossroads. One pathway is deceptively easy: print more money, spend freely, and make grand promises without backing them with real productivity. However, this approach could lead the nation into a cycle of inflation, a weakened currency, and a deepening of poverty among its citizens. The alternative path is undeniably more challenging but ultimately more rewarding: it requires producing more goods, processing resources within the country, and fostering an environment that cultivates genuine value creation. This path promises stability, builds public confidence, and promotes shared prosperity across the country.

This economic dilemma is not merely an abstract concept; it is a pressing issue that will have serious negative effects on the lives of every citizen in Liberia. The decisions made today will resonate in every household, shaping the future for generations.

A nation that resorts to printing money without enhancing production capabilities — especially in light of a negative balance of trade and payments — does not generate sustainable prosperity. Instead, it manufactures inflation, exacerbates hardship, and deepens the cycle of poverty.

Don’t fool the people, printing 79 billion Liberian dollars will not help the Liberian people; It will hurt them severely.

Government is a place to serve, not to steal! A better Liberia is possible.

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Boakai Departs For U.s. To Receive Peace Leadership Award At Africa Peace Awards https://liberianewsnetwork.com/boakai-departs-for-u-s-to-receive-peace-leadership-award-at-africa-peace-awards/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/boakai-departs-for-u-s-to-receive-peace-leadership-award-at-africa-peace-awards/#respond Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:50:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/boakai-departs-for-u-s-to-receive-peace-leadership-award-at-africa-peace-awards/ MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, departed Liberia for a week-long working visit to the United States, where he is expected to receive an international…

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  • MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, departed Liberia for a week-long working visit to the United States, where he is expected to receive an international peace award and engage in high-level diplomatic meetings.
  • According to a release from the Executive Mansion, the President’s trip, which runs from April 22 to April 30, will see him honored with the Peace Leadership Award at the 34th Annual Africa Peace Awards. The event is scheduled to take place at California State University, Sacramento, where President Boakai will also deliver the keynote address.

    The award, organizers say, recognizes the Liberian leader’s commitment to peacebuilding, democratic governance, and inclusive development, both within Liberia and across the African continent.

    Accompanying the President is a delegation of senior government officials and distinguished figures, including Minister of State without Portfolio Mamaka Bility, Cabinet Director General Nathaniel Kwabo, Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, and Inspector General of Police Gregory Coleman. Also part of the delegation is Professor Robert Sherman, Chairman of the Council of Liberian Experts in the Diaspora (COLED).

    While in the United States, President Boakai and his delegation are expected to hold a series of meetings with international partners and stakeholders aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in key sectors such as governance, investment, and human capacity development.

    In the President’s absence, the Executive Mansion announced that Education Minister Jarso Maley Jallah will chair Cabinet meetings in consultation with both the President and Vice President, ensuring continuity in government operations.

    President Boakai is expected to return to Liberia on May 1, 2026.

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    Nphil Gets “performance Excellence Award” From President Joseph Boakai For Progress Under Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan’s Leadership https://liberianewsnetwork.com/nphil-gets-performance-excellence-award-from-president-joseph-boakai-for-progress-under-dr-dougbeh-chris-nyans-leadership/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/nphil-gets-performance-excellence-award-from-president-joseph-boakai-for-progress-under-dr-dougbeh-chris-nyans-leadership/#respond Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:29:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/nphil-gets-performance-excellence-award-from-president-joseph-boakai-for-progress-under-dr-dougbeh-chris-nyans-leadership/ MONROVIA – Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has recognized the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) with “2025 Performance Excellence Award” for the entity’s progress under the leadership of…

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    MONROVIA – Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has recognized the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) with “2025 Performance Excellence Award” for the entity’s progress under the leadership of Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan as Director General. This recognition covers an annual review of work done within the period January 2025 to June 12, 2025 through December 31, 2025 as per the Performance Contract signed by Dr. Nyan with the government at the Executive Mansion in 2025.

    “I would like to thank and congratulate my hard-working at the NPHIL on being recognized with this Performance Excellence Award presented by President Joseph Boakai,” Dr. Nyan said.

    The recognition of Excellent Performance aligns with the General Auditing Commission’s (GAC) Report of 2025 on Dr. Nyan’s leadership at the NPHIL, which demonstrates NPHIL’s financial compliance, administrative functions with other agencies and ministries, and technical progress which earned NPHIL a score of 81%.

    Dr. Nyan, a globally recognized biomedical scientist, inventor, and public health expert assumed the leadership of the NPHIL on August 19, 2024. Along with his Team, he carried out technical improvements in diagnostics and laboratory functions, and strengthened national as well as cross-border disease surveillance. His leadership also demonstrated high-level of financial accountability, transparency, and fiscal discipline in handling the finances of the institution, while also he also cracked down on corruption and mismanagement.

    Under Dr. Nyan’s leadership during the period under review, three pilot Regional-Laboratory were established in Lofa, Bong, and Maryland Counties so as to diversify testing. He also introduced the Genomic Sequencing technology at the National Reference Laboratory, and recruited and trained over 20 emerging scientists in various aspects of laboratory science and molecular diagnostics. He also led a team that discovered and identified the Monkeypox virus Clade IIa in Liberia.

    As a highlight of these accomplishments, the entity also achieved national and international recognition, with NPHIL designated as an “Africa Regional Center of Excellence for National Public Health Institute Development” by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

    The substantial progress in institutional leadership and technical output sharply contradict an illegal NPHIL Board resolution which claimed “gross inefficiency,” a resolution without evidence on which President Boakai based the issuance of an unlawful termination letter to Dr. Nyan. The termination was challenged as unlawful by Dr. Nyan at the Supreme Court of Liberia and he won the case. In the landmark ruling on February 16, 2026 the Supreme Court found no evidence in the NPHIL Board and Minister of Health Louise Kpoto’s resolution and affidavits as well as found the dismissal to be unlawful and in violation of the NPHIL Act and the Constitution of Liberia.

    “The fact that the President of Liberia Joseph Nyuma Boakai has now awarded the NPHIL a ‘Performance Excellence Award’ for the period under review that I served as Director General, it shows that nobody can ever bury the truth and that the truth is very stubborn,” Dr. Nyan commented.

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    Liberia Calls For Stronger, Focused UN Peacekeeping Mandate In South Sudan As Violence Escalante https://liberianewsnetwork.com/liberia-calls-for-stronger-focused-un-peacekeeping-mandate-in-south-sudan-as-violence-escalante/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/liberia-calls-for-stronger-focused-un-peacekeeping-mandate-in-south-sudan-as-violence-escalante/#respond Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:59:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/liberia-calls-for-stronger-focused-un-peacekeeping-mandate-in-south-sudan-as-violence-escalante/ NEW YORK – Liberia has called for a strengthened and clearly defined United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, warning that the country’s worsening political and security conditions require urgent…

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    NEW YORK – Liberia has called for a strengthened and clearly defined United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, warning that the country’s worsening political and security conditions require urgent and focused international intervention to protect civilians and stabilize the peace process.

    Speaking at a United Nations Security Council briefing, Liberia’s Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti emphasized the need for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to prioritize its core responsibilities amid growing instability, displacement, and rising civilian casualties in the country.

    Addressing the Council in support of a joint A3 statement presented by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Minister Nyanti stressed that UNMISS must remain focused on protecting civilians, ensuring humanitarian access, and supporting the fragile peace process rather than expanding into overstretched mandates.

    She warned that increasing expectations without matching resources risks weakening the mission’s effectiveness and undermining public trust in peacekeeping operations at a critical moment for South Sudan.

    Drawing from Liberia’s own post-conflict recovery experience, Nyanti underscored that successful peacekeeping depends on efficiency and clarity of mandate rather than expansion of responsibilities without adequate support.

    Liberia aligned with fellow African members of the Security Council in expressing deep concern over the deteriorating situation in South Sudan, noting escalating violence, widespread displacement, and the alarming rise in civilian suffering.

    The Foreign Minister emphasized that peacekeeping remains indispensable in the current context, describing it as essential rather than optional for protecting vulnerable populations and maintaining stability.

    She further called on the international community to ensure that the renewal of UNMISS is backed by predictable financing, operational flexibility, and sustained political backing to enhance its effectiveness on the ground.

    Minister Nyanti also reaffirmed Liberia’s support for African-led diplomatic efforts, welcoming the appointment of former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete as African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa and Red Sea region, with South Sudan identified as a priority area.

    While reaffirming the importance of elections in South Sudan’s democratic transition, Liberia cautioned that electoral processes must be grounded in improved security conditions, inclusivity, and strong protection for civilians to ensure credibility and stability.

    “Peacekeeping cannot replace national leadership,” Minister Nyanti stated. “But the people of South Sudan deserve a mission that is credible, focused, and fully supported to save lives today while political solutions take root.”

    Liberia reiterated its commitment to African solidarity and constructive engagement within the United Nations system, stressing the need for collective action to safeguard civilians and advance lasting peace in South Sudan.

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    Woman Charged With Manslaughter In Fatal Domestic Dispute In Brewerville https://liberianewsnetwork.com/woman-charged-with-manslaughter-in-fatal-domestic-dispute-in-brewerville/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/woman-charged-with-manslaughter-in-fatal-domestic-dispute-in-brewerville/#respond Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:15:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/woman-charged-with-manslaughter-in-fatal-domestic-dispute-in-brewerville/ MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, formally charged a 30-year-old woman, Annie Kollie, with manslaughter in connection with the death of her fiancé, Mitchel…

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    MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, formally charged a 30-year-old woman, Annie Kollie, with manslaughter in connection with the death of her fiancé, Mitchel Nowah, following a violent domestic altercation in the New Israel Community, Brewerville.

    According to police records, Kollie, a Guinean national residing in the area, was arrested on April 13, 2026, a day after the incident. She is accused of unlawfully causing Nowah’s death during a confrontation inside their shared residence.

    Providing details of the incident, the LNP stated that the altercation occurred late Sunday night, April 12, 2026, when Nowah reportedly returned home and attempted to enter a bedroom where Kollie had been sleeping separately for several weeks amid ongoing domestic tensions.

    Police say the situation escalated when Kollie refused him entry. “The deceased allegedly forced his way into the room and pulled the suspect by the hair, which led to a physical struggle between the two,” the LNP noted in its findings.

    During the confrontation, investigators say Kollie allegedly seized a stone and struck Nowah multiple times, targeting his neck and the back of his head. The blows reportedly rendered him unconscious.

    He was later rushed to Redemption Hospital, where medical personnel pronounced him dead on arrival.

    The LNP disclosed that preliminary investigations point to a history of domestic disputes between the couple, including claims of habitual alcohol use and alleged violence by the deceased. These circumstances, police say, reportedly led Kollie to relocate to a separate bedroom within the home prior to the incident.

    At the time of the incident, the couple was living together with four children, adding another layer of concern to what authorities describe as a tragic domestic situation.

    “Following a thorough review of witness statements and available evidence, investigators established that the suspect’s actions directly led to the victim’s death,” the LNP stated.

    Kollie has since been charged under the manslaughter provisions of the Revised Penal Code of the Republic of Liberia and is expected to face prosecution in accordance with the law.

    The police emphasized their continued commitment to investigating domestic violence cases and ensuring accountability, while urging the public to seek peaceful means of resolving disputes to prevent similar tragedies.

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    Tweah Takes The Stand As Economic Sabotage Trial Reaches Critical Stage https://liberianewsnetwork.com/tweah-takes-the-stand-as-economic-sabotage-trial-reaches-critical-stage/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/tweah-takes-the-stand-as-economic-sabotage-trial-reaches-critical-stage/#respond Mon, 20 Apr 2026 13:24:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/tweah-takes-the-stand-as-economic-sabotage-trial-reaches-critical-stage/ MONROVIA – Former Finance and Development Planning Minister, Samuel D. Tweah on Monday, April 20, 2026, appeared in court to testify in the ongoing economic sabotage case. The trial centers…

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    MONROVIA – Former Finance and Development Planning Minister, Samuel D. Tweah on Monday, April 20, 2026, appeared in court to testify in the ongoing economic sabotage case.

    The trial centers on allegations that Tweah, along with several former government officials, facilitated the unauthorized movement and management of millions of United States dollars in public funds. Prosecutors have charged the defendants with economic sabotage, money laundering, criminal conspiracy, and theft of property, offenses that carry significant legal consequences under Liberian law.

    Tweah’s decision to testify marks a crucial moment for the defense, which has now begun presenting its case after weeks of testimony from state witnesses. Legal observers view his appearance as a calculated move aimed at directly countering the prosecution’s claims while offering explanations for key financial decisions made during his time in office.

    Defense attorneys have consistently argued that the transactions under scrutiny occurred during exceptional national circumstances and were carried out within the framework of government authority. According to them, even if there were procedural shortcomings, such actions should not be interpreted as criminal conduct.

    Meanwhile, the prosecution’s case has faced increasing examination, particularly following the testimony of Tanneh Brunson, Deputy Finance Minister for Budget. During cross-examination, Brunson admitted that while some financial procedures may not have been strictly followed, the actions in question were not necessarily illegal.

    Her statements have raised questions about the strength of the prosecution’s central argument that the transactions were part of a deliberate and unlawful scheme. The defense has since seized on these inconsistencies, highlighting gaps between witness testimonies and investigative conclusions.

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    Bility Condemns Kolubah Expulsion Amid Deepening Legislative Divide https://liberianewsnetwork.com/bility-condemns-kolubah-expulsion-amid-deepening-legislative-divide/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/bility-condemns-kolubah-expulsion-amid-deepening-legislative-divide/#respond Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:18:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/bility-condemns-kolubah-expulsion-amid-deepening-legislative-divide/ MONROVIA – The expulsion of Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah from the House of Representatives of Liberia has sparked sharp political reactions, with Representative Musa Hassan Bility describing…

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    MONROVIA – The expulsion of Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah from the House of Representatives of Liberia has sparked sharp political reactions, with Representative Musa Hassan Bility describing the decision as “retribution for dissent” rather than a legitimate act of justice.

    Kolubah was officially removed on Friday, April 17, 2026, after 49 members of the 55th National Legislature signed a resolution endorsing his expulsion. The decision followed a heated legislative process linked to allegations surrounding Kolubah’s public statements on Liberia’s territorial integrity.

    Reacting strongly to the outcome, Bility criticized the move, arguing that Liberia’s legal framework already provides established procedures for investigating and prosecuting matters involving alleged threats to national sovereignty. He maintained that bypassing judicial processes in favor of legislative punishment undermines democratic governance.

    “This should not be mistaken for justice,” Bility stated. “If there were genuine concerns about violating Liberia’s sovereignty, our laws already provide the proper path for investigation and prosecution.”

    He further warned that the action could have far-reaching implications for democratic accountability within the House, cautioning that it risks weakening checks and balances while fostering fear among lawmakers who may hold dissenting views.

    “What we have seen instead appears to be retribution for dissent,” he added. “That is dangerous for our democracy. It weakens checks and balances, creates fear within the House, and sends the wrong message to those who dare to speak against power.”

    While the majority of lawmakers supported the expulsion, the decision was not without opposition. Sinoe County District #2 Representative Samson Wiah firmly rejected the move, declaring his vote as “NO” and warning that the action undermines constitutional order and democratic principles.

    “Every elected lawmaker represents the will of the people,” Wiah stated, stressing that any attempt to remove a sitting representative must strictly follow due process and constitutional safeguards.

    He further emphasized that dissenting opinions, even when controversial, are an essential part of democratic governance and should not be grounds for expulsion. Wiah cautioned that the decision could establish a dangerous precedent that may weaken Liberia’s democratic space in the future.

    “My vote remains NO,” he concluded.

    Despite the objections, the resolution passed with 49 lawmakers appending their signatures. The supporting legislators were drawn from across the country, including Bomi, Bong, Gbarpolu, Grand Bassa, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Grand Kru, Lofa, Margibi, Maryland, Montserrado, Nimba, River Gee, and Rivercess Counties.

    Among those in Bong County who supported the measure were lawmakers such as Moima Dabah Briggs-Mensah and others, while a majority of Montserrado County representatives also backed the decision, reflecting strong support from the capital’s delegation.

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    49 Lawmakers Back Kolubah’s Expulsion As House Cites Controversial Remarks https://liberianewsnetwork.com/49-lawmakers-back-kolubahs-expulsion-as-house-cites-controversial-remarks/ https://liberianewsnetwork.com/49-lawmakers-back-kolubahs-expulsion-as-house-cites-controversial-remarks/#respond Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:02:00 +0000 https://liberianewsnetwork.com/49-lawmakers-back-kolubahs-expulsion-as-house-cites-controversial-remarks/ MONROVIA – The House of Representatives of Liberia has expelled Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah following a decisive move supported by 49 lawmakers, marking one of the most…

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    MONROVIA – The House of Representatives of Liberia has expelled Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah following a decisive move supported by 49 lawmakers, marking one of the most dramatic disciplinary actions in recent legislative history.

    The decision was reached after the House Committee on Rules, Order and Administration submitted its report, recommending Kolubah’s expulsion and calling for a full-scale investigation by the Ministry of Justice. The committee’s findings were subsequently endorsed by a majority of lawmakers, sealing Kolubah’s fate in the legislature.

    The controversy stems from remarks made by Kolubah during a broadcast on Spoon TV, where he reportedly claimed that a disputed piece of land belongs to neighboring Guinea. The statement quickly sparked public outrage and raised concerns among lawmakers about national sovereignty and responsible representation.

    The issue escalated after Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo Molubah filed a formal complaint against Kolubah. The complaint was backed by the Inspector General of the Liberia National Police, Gregory O. Coleman, who also expressed concern over the implications of Kolubah’s statements.

    Following these developments, the House launched an internal investigation, tasking its Rules Committee to review the matter and advise on appropriate action. The committee concluded that Kolubah’s remarks were not only inflammatory but also undermined national integrity, warranting both legislative sanctions and further legal scrutiny.

    In its recommendation, the committee urged that the Ministry of Justice probe the circumstances surrounding the statements to determine whether any laws were violated. Lawmakers argued that public officials must be held to a higher standard, especially on matters involving territorial claims and national unity.

    Kolubah, known for his outspoken and often controversial political style, has previously clashed with fellow lawmakers and government officials. However, this latest incident appears to have crossed a line for many in the legislature, culminating in the overwhelming vote for his removal.

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