Liberia stands at a constitutional and security crossroads. The government’s decision to outsource traffic management functions to Liberia Traffic Management Incorporated (LTMI)—a foreign-owned entity—undermines the 1986 Constitution of Liberia, various ECOWAS protocols, and international best practices.
By Dr. Clarence R. Pearson, Sr., PhD, contributing writer
This reckless move must be halted immediately. We demand full disclosure of all foreign interests, an independent investigation into potential conflicts of interest, and the adoption of proven subregional models that prioritize sovereignty and security.
Constitutional Sovereignty at Stake
To be clear, there is no country in the world that has outsourced its entire traffic management system to a foreign-linked or own company. This makes for a compelling argument for Article 2 of the 1986 Constitution, “This Constitution is the supreme and fundamental law of Liberia” binding on all authorities. Moreover, Article 3 affirms Liberia as a sovereign unitary state. Delegating core state functions—vehicle registration, licensing, enforcement—to LTMI directly violates constitutional sovereignty by ceding control over sensitive infrastructure. Informed consent of the governed, a foundational constitutional tenet (Articles 1–2), has been bypassed.
Additionally, Article 20 guarantees due process rights, including “security of the person, property…” which LTMI’s extrajudicial enforcement powers threaten. This arrangement opens the door to arbitrary fines, data misuse, and violations of citizens’ constitutional rights. I therefore call on President Boakai to issue an immediate moratorium on this deal in consideration of public outcry bordoring on national security concerns.
ECOWAS and Regional Legal Frameworks
As a signatory of ECOWAS instruments, Liberia is bound by the 2001 ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which mandates transparency, accountability, and civilian oversight of security institutions. The protocol reinforces that state security systems—especially those handling citizen data and enforcement—must be overseen by democratically elected bodies. This private concession lacks parliamentary scrutiny and transparency, violating ECOWAS norms and Liberia’s obligations under regional law.
International Law and Data Protection Norms
Although Liberia currently lacks a standalone Data Protection Act, its constitution safeguards privacy rights. International standards—such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights—require companies handling personal data to respect privacy, ensure transparency, and prevent misuse. LTMI’s operations, shrouded in secrecy, fail these standards, increasing the risk of data breaches, surveillance, and compromised national security.
Lessons from the Region
West African peers offer successful constitutional and security-respecting alternatives:
Ghana’s DVLA remains a fully state-controlled system, securing biometric data and preventing foreign infiltration.
Nigeria’s FRSC uses local tech firms, ensuring data sovereignty and civilian oversight.
Sierra Leone’s Road Safety Authority leverages public-private partnerships with domestic entities while retaining oversight of sensitive systems.
These models align with ECOWAS’s expectations—modernized, efficient traffic systems developed under sovereign control and transparent governance structures.
Call for Urgent Action
The following measures are imperative:
1. Immediate Halt to LTMI Concession pending constitutional and security review.
2. Full Disclosure of LTMI’s ownership structure and any ties to Liberian officials, per constitutional requirements of transparency.
3. Independent Investigation into potential conflicts of interest, invoking public trust clauses (Art. 2) and due process safeguards (Art. 20).
4. Open Legislative Oversight Hearing, consistent with ECOWAS protocols, to restore trust in constitutional governance.
5. Adopt Regional Best Practices, ensuring traffic modernization supports security sovereignty and regional integration.
A National Call to Conscience
Representative Musa H. Bility, Mr. Alexander B. Cummings, Mr. Simeon Freeman, Cllr. Tiawon S. Gongloe, former Associate Justice Cllr. Kabineh J’nah, and all civic leaders: rise in defense of our constitution. This is a test of Liberia’s commitment to rule of law, sovereignty, and accountability. I call on you all to challenge the LTMI concession in a court of law in defense of the people.
Uphold the Constitution, Protect the People
In closing, let’s be clear: the 1986 Constitution demands that all governmental power derive from the people and serve the nation’s long-term interest (Art. 1–2). By outsourcing critical enforcement and sensitive data to foreign hands, officials are risking our security and sovereignty for short-term gain. Liberia deserves better. Let’s learn from our neighbors and safeguard our future.
If we do not take a stand now, we will lose not only data and infrastructure but the very essence of constitutional democracy.
