MONROVIA – Controversy has emerged at Criminal Court “C” following serious allegations of jury misconduct in the high-profile US$6.2 million corruption trial involving former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel D. Tweah and several former government officials. The allegations surfaced just days after jurors acquitted Tweah and former Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) Comptroller D. Moses P. Cooper of all charges, a verdict that triggered nationwide debate and political reactions.

The acquittal of Tweah, widely viewed as the central figure in the corruption case, has drawn mixed responses across Liberia. Supporters of the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change celebrated the verdict as a triumph of justice, while critics questioned how key defendants could walk free despite the gravity of the allegations and the joint indictment against all accused officials.

However, the controversy deepened after three jurors formally accused some of their fellow panelists of misconduct during deliberations. According to reports emerging from the Temple of Justice, the jurors alleged that certain colleagues improperly used mobile phones in restricted jury areas and maintained unauthorized communications with individuals believed to be associates of the defendants.

The complaint, filed before Criminal Court “C” through an affidavit, reportedly outlined six separate allegations of misconduct. Although the jurors stopped short of accusing anyone of accepting bribes or exchanging money for the verdict, they claimed that outside communication may have improperly influenced the jury’s final decision, particularly the acquittals handed to Tweah and Cooper.

Judicial sources further disclosed that the allegations were accompanied by documentary evidence intended to support the claims against the accused jurors. The development has intensified public scrutiny surrounding the integrity of one of Liberia’s most politically sensitive corruption trials in recent years.

In response, Criminal Court “C” Resident Judge Ousman Feika has ordered a full investigation into the matter. Judge Feika has summoned all jurors involved in the trial, along with lawyers representing both the prosecution and defense, members of the jury management team, bailiffs, sheriffs, and police officers assigned to the jury quarters to appear before the court on Wednesday, May 20.

The court has meanwhile suspended proceedings into a motion for a new trial filed by former National Security Advisor Jefferson Karmoh and former Acting Justice Minister Nyenati Tuan pending the outcome of the jury misconduct investigation. The hearing on the motion had originally been scheduled for Tuesday, May 19.

The controversial verdict delivered on May 8, 2026, concluded a grueling 46-day legal battle at Criminal Court “C.” The twelve-member jury panel acquitted Tweah and Cooper on all charges, including economic sabotage, criminal conspiracy, criminal facilitation, theft of public funds, and money laundering. Their acquittals immediately became a major political talking point across the country.

At the same time, the jury convicted Tuan on charges including theft of public funds, criminal facilitation, and theft of property, while Karmoh was found guilty of criminal facilitation and criminal conspiracy. Former FIA Director General Stanley S. Ford received hung verdicts on several counts after jurors reportedly failed to reach a unanimous decision regarding his criminal liability.

The latest allegations of jury tampering now threaten to cast a long shadow over the entire trial and could potentially reopen legal and political tensions surrounding the case. With the investigation expected to begin on May 20, public attention is once again fixed on the Temple of Justice as Liberians await answers over whether outside influence compromised one of the country’s most consequential corruption verdicts.

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MONROVIA – Prominent Liberian lawyer and politician Tiawan Saye Gongloe has strongly defended renowned Liberian scientist Dougbeh Christopher Nyan following his international media appearance on Al Jazeera Media Network, while simultaneously criticizing the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for what he described as the unfair removal of one of Liberia’s most celebrated public health experts.

Speaking Monday, May 18, 2026, during a live appearance at the main campus of the University of Liberia on Capitol Hill in Monrovia, Gongloe described Dr. Nyan’s interview with Al Jazeera as a proud national moment for Liberia. However, he said the recognition also exposed what he considers a troubling contradiction in the treatment of accomplished Liberians at home.

“I’m so proud of Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan,” Gongloe declared. “Today was both a very happy and a very sad day for me. I watched a Liberian scientist calmly speaking to the world on how to fight Ebola, but at the same time I remembered that this same man was removed from office for no professional reason.”

Gongloe recounted Dr. Nyan’s journey from student activism at the University of Liberia to becoming an internationally recognized scientist through years of academic research and scientific work in Germany, the United States, and other parts of the world. He praised Nyan for developing testing technologies for Ebola and other diseases and for earning international recognition through his scientific contributions.

According to Gongloe, the Al Jazeera interview demonstrated the extent to which Liberian expertise is being acknowledged internationally. He noted that among scientists across Africa and the wider world, the international broadcaster selected a Liberian scientist to discuss Ebola preparedness and public health response.

“Al Jazeera did not call a scientist from South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, or anywhere else,” Gongloe stated. “They called a Liberian scientist who was recognized last year as Africa’s genius. That should make every Liberian proud.”

Despite his admiration for Dr. Nyan’s accomplishments, Gongloe sharply criticized the Boakai administration over Nyan’s removal from the National Public Health Institute of Liberia. He argued that the decision undermined the rule of law and discouraged accomplished Liberians abroad from returning home to contribute to national development.

“Liberia is now proving what is written in the Bible that a prophet is not respected in his own country,” Gongloe said. “A man celebrated around the world as a scientist was disgraced in his own country despite his performance and despite the recognition his institution received.”

The former presidential candidate further warned that the treatment of highly accomplished Liberians could discourage foreign-based professionals and investors from returning to Liberia. Gongloe referenced Liberian-born entrepreneur Richelieu Dennis, suggesting that successful Liberians abroad may become reluctant to invest in Liberia if they believe they could be publicly humiliated or politically targeted.

“There are many Liberians around the world doing extremely well,” Gongloe asserted. “But when they see how people are treated here, they become afraid to return and help build the country.”

Gongloe also revealed that despite his criticisms, he considers himself one of the earliest political figures who encouraged Liberians to support Boakai’s presidential bid. He said his criticism of the current government stems from a desire to ensure the administration succeeds rather than fails.

“I have a stake in this government,” he explained. “When the government does well, I will praise it. But when I see missteps, I will speak out. That is my responsibility as a Liberian.”

The comments came shortly after Dr. Nyan issued a major public health statement assuring Liberians that there are currently no confirmed Ebola cases in Liberia despite renewed outbreaks in parts of Africa. The former NPHIL Director-General addressed growing public concerns following Ebola outbreak declarations in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda by regional and international health authorities.

In his statement, Dr. Nyan acknowledged lingering fears among Liberians due to the devastating 2014 Ebola epidemic that killed thousands and crippled the country’s healthcare system and economy. “First, to this date, you can rest assured that there is no Ebola detected in Liberia,” Dr. Nyan stated. “Be calm, no panic.”

However, he cautioned that Liberia remains vulnerable because of regional travel and cross-border movement, warning citizens not to lower their guard despite the absence of confirmed cases. According to him, lessons learned from Ebola, COVID-19, and Mpox have significantly strengthened Liberia’s outbreak preparedness and response capacity.

Dr. Nyan additionally warned that political interference and bureaucratic power struggles could undermine Liberia’s ability to effectively respond to future disease outbreaks. He stressed that scientific institutions must be allowed to function independently and professionally if the country hopes to maintain effective public health preparedness.

“Preparedness and response will only be effective if technical scientific capabilities are allowed to function devoid of political interference and bureaucratic power-play,” Dr. Nyan cautioned in his statement.

In one of the most controversial portions of his remarks, Dr. Nyan alleged that certain officials attempted in September 2025 to push for the declaration of a viral hemorrhagic fever outbreak without sufficient scientific evidence. According to him, the move could have triggered nationwide panic and economic disruption had the National Public Health Institute of Liberia not resisted the pressure.

He maintained that laboratory tests conducted at Liberia’s National Reference Laboratory produced negative results for Ebola and related hemorrhagic viruses at the time, preventing what he described as a potentially dangerous and unnecessary public alarm.

The post Gongloe Praises Dr. Nyan’s Global Recognition While Criticizing Boakai Government Over Nphil Removal appeared first on Liberia News Network.

MONROVIA – A series of audit findings by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) has raised serious accountability concerns over public financial management and higher education reforms during the administration of former President George Manneh Weah, revealing a combined revenue discrepancy exceeding US$2.08 billion alongside weaknesses in the implementation of Liberia’s free tuition policy.

The audit reports, covering fiscal years 2018 to 2024, point to systemic gaps in revenue reconciliation, governance oversight, and policy execution across key government institutions. The findings have intensified public scrutiny over how state resources were managed during the period under review.

According to the GAC compliance audit, approximately US$1.79 billion in revenue recorded in Liberia’s tax administration system could not be traced to the Consolidated General Revenue Account. In addition, auditors identified L$54.3 billion in Liberian Dollar receipts equivalent to about US$293.5 million bringing the total unaccounted revenue to more than US$2.08 billion.

The report indicates that while these revenues were recorded at the collection level, corresponding transfers and deposits into the national account could not be fully verified. This raises concerns about weaknesses in financial controls, reconciliation processes, and transparency mechanisms within the public financial system during the audit period.

Alongside the revenue findings, the GAC also reviewed the implementation of Liberia’s free tuition policy for public universities and community colleges, introduced in 2018 as a flagship education reform intended to expand access to higher learning.

The audit found that although the policy contributed to increased enrollment in tertiary institutions, it was implemented without a comprehensive written framework to guide operations. The report noted that neither the National Commission on Higher Education nor relevant government authorities developed standardized guidelines to ensure uniform application of the policy.

As a result, students across public institutions continue to face various additional charges, which in some cases reportedly exceed the tuition costs the policy was meant to eliminate. The GAC also highlighted inconsistencies in credit hour fees across institutions, ranging between US$2.60 and US$5, contributing to unequal financial burdens on students.

The report further revealed that increased enrollment placed significant strain on Liberia’s higher education infrastructure. Overcrowded classrooms, limited laboratory facilities, and under-resourced libraries were cited as persistent challenges, with some lecturers reportedly handling between 71 and 100 students per class.

Between 2018 and 2023, the Government of Liberia reportedly spent about US$7.4 million on tuition-related support, compensation, and institutional funding under the policy. However, auditors concluded that the expenditure does not align with enrollment data and credit hours recorded across institutions, suggesting inefficiencies in implementation and oversight.

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LIBERIA – The launch of the National Cadet Program on Friday, May 15, 2026, in Gbarnga, Bong County, has triggered both optimism and political debate, with Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan presenting the initiative as a transformative opportunity for young Liberians, while political commentator and 2029 presidential hopeful Matthew Nyanplu criticized the program as politically motivated.

The National Cadet Program, launched under the Ministry of Youth and Sports headed by Minister Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah, aims to place more than 1,000 university graduates and graduating seniors in government institutions and selected private entities for six months of professional training and practical experience. The initiative forms part of the Unity Party administration’s youth empowerment strategy under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.

However, after the launch ceremony, Nyanplu dismissed the initiative in a social media reaction, accusing the government of exploiting the desperation of unemployed young people for political advantage. “National Cadet Program, good initiative without a transformative vision, politicized by Unity Party’s Augustine Ngafuan and Cornelia to prey on our young people’s desperation. #disgrace,” Nyanplu wrote.

Critics and supporters of the government debated whether the cadet initiative represents genuine empowerment or political image-building ahead of future elections. Nyanplu’s criticism also reflects political differences surrounding programs targeting Liberia’s struggling youth population amid high unemployment and economic hardship.

However, at the launch, Ngafuan used the ceremony to passionately defend the Joseph Nyuma Boakai administration’s development agenda, arguing that the government is making measurable progress despite persistent attacks from political detractors. Delivering an emotionally charged and lengthy address, the Finance Minister framed the cadet program as part of a broader national effort to prepare young Liberians for meaningful participation in the workforce and national development.

Ngafuan drew heavily from his personal experience as a student intern at the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company in 1988, explaining how an internship opportunity during his time at Booker Washington Institute shaped his professional journey and contributed to his later success in public service and international development work. According to him, the National Cadet Program seeks to provide similar opportunities for today’s generation of young Liberians.

“This program is about giving hope to more than 1,000 young people,” Ngafuan declared. He argued that practical workplace exposure remains one of the biggest missing links between university education and employment opportunities in Liberia. He urged institutions hosting cadets to absorb high-performing participants after the six-month training period.

The Finance Minister also used the occasion to strongly counter narratives suggesting that Liberia is deteriorating under the Unity Party-led government. Repeatedly referencing unnamed “detractors,” Ngafuan insisted that the country is moving forward through infrastructure development, civil service reforms, youth-centered projects, and improved international credibility.

According to Ngafuan, the government has significantly increased domestic revenue generation, expanded the national budget from US$738 million to US$1.3 billion, improved salary structures for public sector workers, and initiated major road and educational infrastructure projects across the country. He further pointed to Liberia’s election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council as evidence of improved international respect and confidence in the country.

“We are not still at Redlight,” Ngafuan declared in one of the most politically symbolic moments of his speech, using the analogy of a journey from Redlight to Gbarnga to describe Liberia’s development trajectory. “We may not have reached Gbarnga yet, but we are near Totota,” he said, emphasizing that progress should be measured incrementally rather than through unrealistic expectations.

Ngafuan additionally highlighted several youth-focused initiatives being undertaken by the Boakai administration, including the US$18 million Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank project expected to support 30,000 youth-led businesses and generate over 100,000 jobs. He also referenced Liberia’s successful effort to secure the relocation of the ECOWAS Youth and Sports Center to Monrovia, which he said would create additional opportunities for Liberian youth.

Throughout his address, the Finance Minister repeatedly stressed discipline, humility, integrity, and professionalism as key values for the cadets entering the workforce. He warned young graduates against arrogance and overconfidence, cautioning that academic success alone does not automatically guarantee workplace excellence. Quoting from a speech he delivered in 2013, Ngafuan reminded cadets that “being an honor roll student in university does not automatically transform someone into an honor roll professional in the workplace.”

He encouraged the cadets to become agents of positive change wherever they are assigned, urging them to spread “light where there is darkness,” discipline where there is indiscipline, and integrity where corruption and dishonesty exist. His remarks appeared designed not only to motivate the cadets but also to reinforce the administration’s message of national renewal and institutional reform.

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By Amos Harris

MONROVIA – The former Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), Madam Emma Metieh Glassco, is expected to serve as the Special Guest of Honor at this year’s International Day for Women in Maritime celebration. The prestigious event is organized by the Women in Maritime of West and Central Africa (WIMOWCA) Liberia Chapter.

According to an official invitation issued by the President of the WIMOWCA Liberia Chapter, Mrs. Olivia Faith Tah-Johnson, the main ceremony is scheduled to take place today, May 18, 2026, at the Monrovia City Hall on Capitol Hill. The celebration will bring together key maritime stakeholders, industry professionals, students, and international partners who are collectively committed to advancing gender equality and women’s participation in the maritime and fisheries sectors.

Organizers disclosed that Madam Glassco was selected for the honor in recognition of her outstanding, transformative contributions to Liberia’s blue economy. Her credentials include serving as the founding President of the Women in Maritime Association (WIMAFRICA) Liberia Chapter, alongside her relentless, ongoing advocacy for women’s empowerment within non-traditional marine professions. Her institutional leadership and professional accomplishments have contributed significantly to strengthening Liberia’s visibility within regional and international maritime bodies.

As part of the strategic activities marking this year’s celebration, the WIMOWCA Liberia Chapter also hosted a massive, one-day career awareness and mentorship workshop on Friday, May 15, 2026. The preparatory program brought together graduating senior students from thirty-two high schools across Montserrado County, along with various university departments offering marine and maritime-related academic programs.

According to the organizers, the workshop was specifically structured to educate, inspire, and empower young women to explore lucrative career paths within the maritime industry. The students benefited from expert lectures, direct mentorship sessions, interactive panel discussions, and a guided educational tour of the Freeport of Monrovia.

The leadership of WIMOWCA expressed strong confidence that Madam Glassco’s keynote participation at the main event will serve as a powerful source of inspiration for the young female students aspiring to build careers in fisheries science, maritime administration, marine engineering, and port operations.

International partners and regional maritime stakeholders continue to recognize Madam Glassco’s institutional contributions as instrumental in modernizing Liberia’s maritime governance framework and expanding the executive role of women in maritime leadership across the West and Central African sub-region.

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By Amos Harris

KAKATA, MARGIBI COUNTY – The 2026 National Kpelle Unification Day celebration was commemorated in grand style in Kakata, Margibi County, concluding with a renewed national call for peace, cultural preservation, sustainable development, and total unity among Liberians.

The colorful gathering brought together traditional leaders, elders, senior government officials, youth groups, cultural performers, and members of the National Association of Kpelle and Kpelle-speaking People from across Liberia and neighboring Guinea.

Delivering the keynote address on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Kakata City, Margibi County, prominent Liberian scholar and environmental advocate Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo described the occasion as far more than a routine cultural festival. Instead, he framed it as a historic moment of deep reflection on indigenous identity, leadership, grassroots peacebuilding, and Liberia’s collective future.

Speaking under the theme, “Kpelle Unity for Cultural Renewal, Peace, Development, and National Progress,” Dr. Yarkpawolo praised the Kpelle people for preserving their rich cultural heritage over the decades while simultaneously encouraging a stronger, collective commitment toward national transformation and social harmony.

Dr. Yarkpawolo, who also serves as the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), emphasized that Kpelle unity should become a primary driving force for educational advancements, peace, women and youth empowerment, and sustainable national development. According to him, a fully unified Kpelle population can significantly accelerate the building of a more prosperous and cohesive Liberia.

The keynote speaker noted that the Kpelle people, recognized as Liberia’s largest ethnic group, carry a unique civic responsibility in modeling peace, discipline, social organization, and inclusive leadership across the country. He stressed that when the Kpelle community remains cohesive, Liberia as a whole benefits from increased political stability, ethnic reconciliation, and national progress.

Addressing regional dynamics, Dr. Yarkpawolo encouraged Kpelle communities spread across Bong, Margibi, Lofa, Bomi, and Gbarpolu counties, as well as those in neighboring Guinea, to rise above localized political and regional divisions. He reminded participants that despite minor differences in dialects and geographic locations, the Kpelle people remain fundamentally connected through a shared ancestry, culture, history, and a common destiny.

Highlighting the critical importance of preserving indigenous identity, Dr. Yarkpawolo issued an urgent call to parents, educational institutions, churches, media entities, and community organizations to protect and actively promote the Kpelle language. He warned that the loss of indigenous languages directly correlates with the permanent erasure of valuable historical wisdom, oral traditions, and cultural identity for future generations.

The EPA Executive Director further stressed the strategic importance of education, technical youth empowerment, and women’s leadership. He urged Kpelle professionals and leaders residing both at home and in the diaspora to invest heavily in competitive scholarship opportunities, vocational training, modernized agriculture, entrepreneurship, medicine, and environmental science programs tailored to uplift young people and rural communities.

In a passionate appeal for environmental protection, Dr. Yarkpawolo cautioned against illegal mining, deforestation, river pollution, and other harmful environmental practices threatening rural Liberia. Drawing from his extensive professional background in environmental governance, he encouraged local communities to serve as active custodians of their forests, rivers, agricultural lands, and sacred spaces for the benefit of future generations.

As a centerpiece of his address, Dr. Yarkpawolo proposed the establishment of a “Kpelle Unification Compact.” This strategic framework centers on preserving the Kpelle language, fostering regional peace, promoting responsible governance, empowering women and youth, protecting natural resources, and reinforcing Liberia’s broader national unity.

The commemorative ceremony was marked by vibrant cultural performances, traditional music, historical storytelling, and diverse dance exhibitions that showcased the rich heritage of the Kpelle people. Attendees widely praised the event as a meaningful platform for reconciliation, cultural pride, and the cultivation of a collective national vision.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Yarkpawolo urged Liberians to ensure that the spirit of brotherhood extends far beyond annual celebrations and political speeches. He challenged citizens to demonstrate true unity through daily service to their communities, deep respect for elders, tangible support for women and youth, active preservation of culture, and an unwavering commitment to Liberia’s long-term growth and development.

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MONROVIA, LIBERIA, 18 May 2026 — Liberia has concluded a three-day workshop aimed at strengthening national readiness for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with 63 participants receiving certification for their engagement and contributions.

Participants from government, private sector, and civil society institutions highlighted the workshop as a significant step toward deepening understanding of Liberia’s commitments under the AfCFTA Trade in Services framework.

Jesse Z. Mathies, Director in the Division of Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI), described the workshop as highly impactful.

“A lot of new information was shared here between the participants and the consultant, and all of it will help us to make corrections and amendments to the audit report. Additionally, it was good for knowledge sharing, and as a ministry, it has helped us connect with new stakeholders so we can update our database.”

From the private sector, the Liberia Chamber of Commerce Secretary General, Ms. Catherine H. Kamo, emphasized the practical value of the training.

“The workshop has enlightened participants on AfCFTA commitments and how to navigate the services’ sector. For the Chamber, which represents over 200 members and 54 indirect memberships, the knowledge gained will be shared widely.”

Ms. Karmo also noted that while the Chamber already collaborates with the MOCI, the sessions revealed additional areas requiring closer coordination to advance national trade objectives.

The workshop, held from May 11–13 in Monrovia, was organized by the ECOWAS Commission under the ECOWAS/AfDB/UNDP Institutional Support Project (ISP) to analyze the findings of the newly developed regulatory audit reports and strengthen national capacity for policy reform.

Speaking at the close of the workshop, the ECOWAS Project Management Analyst, Ms. Chanchel Zorblewu commended participants for their active engagement.

“Participants demonstrated a high level of technical interest and commitment. The involvement of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, other sector institutions, and the private sector significantly enriched the discussions.”

She noted that the workshop not only strengthened understanding of the AfCFTA Trade in Services framework but also fostered inter-agency dialogue, enhanced collaboration on policy reforms, and supported alignment of Liberia’s regulatory systems with continental commitments.

Similarly, Trokon Bryant, representing UNDP, praised the dedication shown throughout the training.

“Your commitment over these three days reflects strong potential for Liberia’s economic transformation and future growth.”

Bryant also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for ensuring inclusive participation and effective coordination.

Technical Facilitation and Capacity Building

Leading the technical sessions, expert consultant Ms. Beatrice Chaytor guided participants through:

• Trade in services rules and frameworks
• The Services Trade Restrictiveness Index (STRI)
• Sector-specific regulatory assessments

The workshop progressed from conceptual overviews to hands-on breakout sessions focused on Liberia’s commitments across key sectors:

• Business Services
• Financial Services
• Communication Services
• Transport Services
• Tourism Services

Participants also reviewed additional sectors for future negotiations, including Construction, Distribution, and Health Services.

Ms. Chaytor emphasized the strategic importance of the exercises.

“They are designed to help participants think about how Liberia can become competitive relative to other countries based on its commitments.”

She added, “Participants are now better equipped to respond to market access requests from other countries in a timely and informed manner. Moreover, they also understand that trade in services negotiations require a multidisciplinary and collective approach.

Key Findings and Recommendations

Through interactive discussions, participants identified several regulatory and market challenges, including foreign ownership restrictions, market entry barriers and constraints to fair competition.

Sector-specific insights included:

• Financial Services: Need for reforms in board residency rules and cross-border insurance frameworks to enhance investor confidence
• Transport Services: Potential to reduce trade costs, provided nationality requirements are balanced with regional competitiveness

The collaborative sessions enabled stakeholders to review regulatory audit findings, identify policy gaps and develop actionable, evidence-based recommendations.

Impact and Way Forward

With services accounting for over 51% of Africa’s GDP, the workshop underscored the sector’s central role in economic growth, structural transformation, and investment attraction.

The certified participants are now tasked with translating workshop insights into concrete policy actions, including aligning Liberia’s national regulations with AfCFTA commitments, strengthening institutional coordination, and advancing reforms to boost competitiveness in services trade.

By applying these recommendations, Liberia is positioning itself to diversify its economy, enhance regional and continental trade participation and fully leverage opportunities under the AfCFTA.

Originally expected to host 50 delegates, the workshop exceeded expectations with 63 participants certified, reflecting strong national interest and commitment to advancing Liberia’s trade agenda.

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The National Rural Women’s Structure of Liberia says it is innocent of any wrongdoing in the alleged mismanagement of the 2023 rural women’s fund. The group is calling on authorities to limit the case to officials of the Ministry of Commerce who controlled the money.

The statement follows an April 2026 indictment by the Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Task Force (AREPT) that named seven people, including the Structure’s President Kebbeh Mongar and Josephine Greaves, who AREPT listed as the former National Secretary General. 

The Rural Women’s Structure disputes that claim. Officials say Josephine Handful Greaves has never served as National Secretary General. Chapter heads from 11 counties, led by Nimba County’s Annie Kruah and Sinoe County’s Sarah Kawea, said all positions in the Structure are elected for. They said Reeves has only provided technical support on a pro-bono basis as a founding member of women’s organizations in Liberia.

As a result of the indictment, President Joseph Boakai suspended Greaves from her post as Assistant Minister for Research at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. The Rural Women’s Structure is now calling on the President to reinstate her on ground that she is not in any way a party to the Rural Women funds that have been mismanaged according to the Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce.

“Josephine is not working with the Rural Women’s Structure as stated in AREPT’s claim. We are calling on the President to reinstate her to her post as Assistant Minister for Research,” the women said.

The Structure also objects to including its President, Kebbeh Mongar, alongside Ministry of Commerce officials in the indictment. 

“We received only what the Ministry of Commerce disbursed to us, and we have the records to prove it,” officials said. “We condemn the inclusion of our National President in the indictment.”

According to documents from the Structure, the 2023 budget earmarked $1.8 million for rural women’s programs. The Structure says it received LRD 59 million, about $300,000 at the government exchange rate, through cheques issued by the Ministry of Commerce between September 18 and 22, 2023. 

The funds were for a project titled _“Building Community Resilience and Increasing Economic Opportunities of Women and Youth in Liberia”_. The project aimed to support rural women in 15 counties with communal farming and village savings activities.

Photos of Cheques Issued to the National Rural Women per chapter by the Ministry of Commerce 

The Structure’s report shows LRD 1 million was allocated to each district, with total amounts per county ranging from LRD 2 million to LRD 9 million. The group noted that Bomi County’s check was returned by Ecobank. It also said Nimba County received LRD 6 million, not LRD 9 million, and that none of the funds received by Nimba were shared with Josephine Reeves.

County chapter heads confirmed receiving the funds and said the money was used for farming, village savings, and small business programs.

“My son, we received what was given to us by the Ministry of Commerce through our national office,” said Sarah Kawea, Sinoe County Chapter Head. “They told us about $1.8 million USD, but later we received cheques of LRD 3 million for Sinoe. We used the money for our farms and village savings.”

Eleven county chapters said they submitted bank statements, copies of cheques, and expenditure reports to investigators.

“The National Rural Women’s Structure is a beneficiary institution, not the spending authority for the full $1.8 million,” said Annie Kruah, Nimba Chapter Head. “If there are questions about the unaccounted balance, those questions should be directed to the institution that held and disbursed the funds.”

The group is urging the Ministry of Justice and AREPT to separate the charges and focus on officials who managed the full allocation.

Copy of the Rurual Women Report on Money received from the Ministry of Commerce in September 20223

“We are pleased to report that a substantial amount of Fifty-Nine Million Liberian Dollars ($59,000,000LD) 

was received from the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce for the purpose of Communion farming and Nine Hundred and thirty four thousand Seven Hundred Liberian Dollars ($934,700LD) for operation” The National Rural Women said in a proposal, a copy in the possession of investigators.

According to the National Rural Women Proposal, the project objectives are also aligned to the Pillar one (1) of the Pro-poor agenda, which focuses on Reducing gender inequality in political, social, and economic life through government and partner supported interventions, and in partnership with women groups and communities.

Utilization Plan

The funds received by the 73 districts will fund one communion farm in each district between 5-10 hectares. The table indicates amount received per district and Operational cost:

No County # of Districts Total Received per dist. Total per county

1 Montserrado County 3 1,000,000.00LD 3,000,000.00LD

2 Grand Bassa County 5 1,000,000.00LD 5,000,000.00LD

3 Rivercess County 2 1,000,000.00LD 2,000,000.00LD

4 Bomi County 3 1,000,000.00LD 3,000,000.00LD

5 Lofa County 5 1,000,000.00LD 5,000,000.00LD

6 Nimba County 9 1,000,000.00LD 9,000,000.00LD

7 Sinoe County 3 1,000,000.00LD 3,000,000.00LD

8 River Gee County 3 1,000,000.00LD 3,000,000.00LD

9 Grand Kru County 2 1,000,000.00LD 2,000,000.00LD

10 Maryland County 3 1,000,000.00LD 3,000,000.00LD

11 Bong County 7 1,000,000.00LD 7,000,000.00LD

12 Grand Gedeh 3 1,000,000.00LD 3,000,000.00LD

13 Grand Cape Mount 3 1,000,000.00LD 3,000,000.00LD

14 Gbarpolu County 3 1,000,000.00LD 3,000,000.00LD

15 Margibi County 5 1,000,000.00LD 5,000,000.00LD

16 **Grand Total** **59** **59,000,000.00LD**

AREPT charged seven people with theft of property, economic sabotage, misuse of public money, misapplication of entrusted property, and criminal conspiracy.

Those named are:

1. Mawine G. Diggs – Former Minister of Commerce & Industry  

2. Jedu J.N. Nuefville – Financial Controller, Ministry of Commerce & Industry  

3. Joseph Howard – Former Senior Policy Advisor, Ministry of Commerce & Industry  

4. Kebbeh Mongar – President, National Rural Women’s Structure of Liberia  

5. Elizabeth Sambula – President, Liberia Marketing Association  

6. Josephine Greaves – Listed as Former Secretary General, National Rural Women’s Structure  

7. Kermue Borbor – Cashier, Ministry of Commerce & Industry  

                  Copy of the Indictment, Writ of Arrest Following AREPT Reports

AREPT Chairman Edwin Klah Martin said investigations found that the defendants diverted the funds with criminal intent, depriving the intended beneficiaries and using the money for personal gain.

Under Section 3 of the Public Financial Management Regulations, liability for public money falls on the person or entity that received and controlled the funds. Section 3(4) states that if money is lost through misconduct or negligence, “the person is accountable for the sum, as if the person had collected and received it.”

From a legal context, if the Rural Women’s Structure can prove it received and accounted for only the funds transferred to it, it may have grounds to seek separation from charges related to the larger allocation.

The National Rural Women’s Structure says it will continue to cooperate with the investigation and push for transparency and accountability in programs for rural women.

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Addressing delegates at the summit, Elumelu emphasized that Africa’s transformation depends heavily on investments in electricity and infrastructure, stressing that the private sector must play a central role in mobilizing the capital required for sustainable development.

“We welcome true partnerships — partnerships of substance and based on equity — where Africans and African solutions catalyze Africa’s future,” Elumelu declared.

According to him, creating the right business environment across the continent would unlock investment opportunities, generate jobs, reduce poverty, and drive long-term prosperity.

“The private sector is what will help us mobilize capital to drive investment in infrastructure and electricity. These are critical requirements for Africa’s economic prosperity and development,” he said.

With more than 65 percent of Africa’s population under the age of 35, Elumelu rejected the traditional aid-driven narrative often associated with the continent, insisting that young Africans need opportunities rather than charity.

“In Africa, we have a young population. There is no room for victim mentality. Our youth do not need handouts; they need jobs, improved access to electricity, and access to the internet,” he stressed.

“What is important is providing the enabling environment and infrastructure that will allow our young people to realize their full potential.”

Elumelu highlighted the impact of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, noting that the organization has provided entrepreneurial training opportunities to more than 2.5 million young Africans and funded over 27,000 entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries, making it the continent’s largest entrepreneurship support platform.

He further urged African leaders to embrace credible international partnerships capable of accelerating economic growth and innovation across the continent.

“It is a good place to be as Africans now. We should embrace those who want to help catalyze growth in Africa. Africa is the fastest-growing region globally, and it is not just because of demographics,” he noted.

Calling for a shift in mindset in the 21st century, Elumelu said Africa must prioritize economic empowerment, job creation, and poverty reduction through strategic investments and inclusive development policies.

His participation at the summit aligns with the broader vision of Heirs Holdings to promote long-term African development through investments in critical sectors including power, healthcare, financial services, hospitality, and technology.

The 2026 Africa Forward Summit concluded with renewed calls for stronger collaboration between governments, development institutions, and private sector actors as leaders explored pathways to accelerate inclusive growth and strengthen Africa’s position within the global economy.

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According to a release issued by the Central Bank, the decision was unanimously approved by NGFS members on April 10, 2026, in line with Article 7 of the organization’s Charter governing plenary membership.

The NGFS was established during the One Planet Summit held in Paris in December 2017 by a coalition of central banks and financial supervisors seeking to strengthen the role of financial institutions in addressing climate-related risks while supporting environmentally sustainable economic growth.

Since its establishment, the network has expanded into a major global platform with more than 171 members and observers worldwide. The organization promotes the exchange of best practices, supports research on climate and financial risks, and encourages the integration of climate and environmental considerations into financial regulation and policymaking.

Liberia’s admission into the network is expected to deepen the country’s collaboration with international financial institutions and development partners while strengthening the CBL’s institutional capacity to address climate-related risks within the financial sector.

The release noted that membership in the NGFS will enhance the Central Bank’s ability to integrate environmental and climate-risk considerations into critical functions, including financial stability oversight, banking supervision, monetary policy implementation, and institutional planning.

The development also aligns with the CBL’s broader reform efforts aimed at modernizing Liberia’s financial system and strengthening resilience against emerging global economic and environmental challenges.

As part of those reforms, the Bank has already conducted a national assessment of climate-related issues affecting the financial sector and developed an implementation roadmap. Joining global platforms such as the NGFS was identified as a key recommendation under that strategy.

The release further stated that the Executive Governor and members of the Board of Governors of the Central Bank welcomed Liberia’s admission into the network and expressed appreciation to the NGFS leadership and membership for accepting the country as a plenary member.

They reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to advancing sound climate policies, promoting sustainable finance, and strengthening cooperation and knowledge-sharing within the global financial community.

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