By Lincoln G. Peters
CONGO TOWN, Monrovia, July 30, 2026 — Prominent Liberian human rights lawyer Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe has linked the country’s growing narcotics problem, including the recent seizure of cocaine valued at more than US$317 million, to corruption and what he described as a broader moral decline in Liberia.
Speaking as a panelist during Restoration Baptist Church’s Independence Day celebration under the theme, “When the Church Shapes the Nation: Where Should Faith Meet Public Life?”, Gongloe said corruption fuels social problems that threaten the country’s future, particularly the spread of illegal drugs.
Addressing the sub-theme, “You Shall Love Your Neighbor as Yourself,” Gongloe said his reflections on ethical leadership, corruption, narcotics, natural resource governance, and national transformation were rooted in Christ’s command to love one’s neighbor.
According to him, corruption is not only a crime against the state but also a sin against God because it violates the biblical command to care for others.
“One painful consequence of corruption and the general moral decline in our country is the growing prevalence of narcotic drugs,” Gongloe said. “The recent seizure of a large shipment of cocaine reminds us that Liberia is not immune from this global evil. Drug trafficking destroys lives, and addiction destroys families.”
He said the drug crisis robs young people of their future and weakens communities, stressing that addressing the problem requires more than law enforcement.
“This crisis is not only a matter for law enforcement,” he said. “It is also a matter for parents, teachers, churches, and every citizen.”
Gongloe urged Liberians to play a greater role in protecting young people from substance abuse, arguing that preventing drug use is both a civic and moral responsibility.
“Every child protected from narcotic drugs is a neighbor loved. Every young person rescued from addiction is a life restored,” he said. “When corruption opens the door, narcotic drugs enter; when narcotic drugs enter, hope leaves many homes.”
He also pointed to several African countries that have made significant progress in reducing corruption, including Botswana, Seychelles, Cabo Verde, Mauritius, Namibia, and Rwanda, saying their experiences demonstrate that stronger governance and ethical leadership can produce better national outcomes.
Gongloe urged Liberia to pursue similar reforms by promoting integrity, accountability, and moral leadership to combat corruption and safeguard the country’s future.
