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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/war-crimes/liberia-victim-fears-safety-after-u-s-deportation-of-accused-warlord-calls-for-war-crimes-court/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:38:43 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131216Summary: By Anthony Stephens, senior justice correspondent with New Narratives In July 2003, N. says he watched armed fighters kill his sister during Liberia’s civil war—an attack he says was ordered by former rebel commander Mayama Sesay, known as “Black Diamond.” More than two decades on, he says the memory of the gunfire, the panic, and […]
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Summary:
- A Liberian civil war survivor says the deportation of former LURD commander Mayama Sesay, also known as “Black Diamond,” has left him fearing for his safety.
- He alleges Sesay ordered the killing of his sister in 2003 and later oversaw his assault, and says he has received death threats linked to another ex-rebel commander, Laye Sekou Camara.
- Human rights advocates warn that returning accused war crimes suspects without a war crimes court in place risks intimidating witnesses.
- Liberia’s Witness Protection Agency says the government is treating witness safety as a priority and is working to assess threats and provide support.
By Anthony Stephens, senior justice correspondent with New Narratives
In July 2003, N. says he watched armed fighters kill his sister during Liberia’s civil war—an attack he says was ordered by former rebel commander Mayama Sesay, known as “Black Diamond.” More than two decades on, he says the memory of the gunfire, the panic, and the loss has never faded.
So the news that Sesay had been deported from the United States in September after she had been found to have violated immigration procedures there by lying about her wartime record, has left him and other survivors living in fear. (N. is his first initial. FrontPage Africa/New Narratives is hiding his identity to protect him from retaliation.) N. testified via video-link to prosecutors in the investigation against Sesay.
Although deportees are traditionally received by family members upon arrival, officials have provided few details about who took custody of Sesay. Laurie Massaquoi Page, spokeswoman for the Liberia Immigration Service, told FPA/NN that Sesay was “signed for by a family member,” but provided no details. Nothing has been heard publicly about Sesay’s whereabouts since her return.
“Her being in the country is a threat to all of us,” says N. “We are afraid. When I am sleeping, I watch over everything I do. When I am going home, I am afraid of going home.”
Sesay, who led a feared all-female fighting unit known as the “Women’s Artillery Commandos” during the war, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, fought with the rebel group Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy, or Lurd, which the Truth and Reconciliation Commission later found was responsible for the second-highest number of reported wartime violations — 18,797 abuses, or 12 percent of all violations the commission documented.
N. says he and his sister had left their home in Caldwell, on the outskirts of Monrovia, searching for food at the Freeport of Monrovia, the country’s largest seaport. Fighters on the ground had allowed civilians to take rice from a shipping container.
Then, he says, Sesay arrived, furious.
“‘Who gave these dogs the rice?’” N. recalls Sesay asking her fighters. Moments later her troops opened fire into the container where unarmed civilians were taking rice from.
“The bulk of them that died in the container were women because only few men were there,” says Sackie. “Roughly about 6-10 persons were there, including my sister.”
N. says the killing of his sister was not the only abuse he suffered. Weeks later, he says, he was assaulted by Sesay’s bodyguards while she looked on. He recalls fetching water from a community well when armed men stopped him.
“They said ‘put the water down,’” he says. “When I put the water down, they said ‘open your mouth.’ I opened my mouth; they put rock inside. They knocked me with the gun butt. That what took out the three teeth from my mouth. She (Sesay) was there. She did not talk.”
The commission’s final report, released in 2009, does not name Sesay. But analysts note that the absence of her name does not amount to exoneration. The commission itself acknowledged that it documented only a fraction of crimes committed during the war.
N. says his fear is well founded. He says he has previously received death threats from Laye Sekou Camara, known as “K-1,” another former rebel commander, and was forced to relocate multiple times.
Last year, N. was among 17 Liberians who traveled to Philadelphia to testify against Camara in a U.S. federal case. Camara ultimately pleaded guilty to criminal immigration fraud and was sentenced to nearly five years in prison. (Prosecutors had asked for a 40-year sentence.) The judge credited witness testimony for his finding that Camara was guilty of killings during the second Liberian civil war, including the murder of N’s brother.
Despite the threats N. says he has no regrets.
“I felt relieved that at least justice has been served,” says N. “I do not regret. I wanted justice for my brother.”
But he says the threats have not stopped and he is concerned that Camara will be returned to Liberia as early as 2029.
“My life is not safe,” he says. “My life is in danger. The man knows me personally. Some of his bodyguard know me personally.”
Human rights advocates say the fear voiced by witnesses like N underscores the urgency of establishing Liberia’s long-promised war crimes court. Hassan Bility, director of the Global Justice and Research Project, says seven witnesses in U.S. and European cases involving alleged Liberian war crimes, including N. have been relocated in the past six months because of security threats. Bility says the witnesses now fear for their lives. His organization conducts the investigations with Civitas Maxima, a Switzerland-based partner, in cooperation with national investigators and prosecutors.
“When the witness is located and they look at the individual who was deported to Liberia, and some of the things they did during the war, they begin to feel that individual is still capable of doing that, either directly or indirectly,” Bility says. “What this does is that it discourages the victims and witnesses to come forward again. It certainly is a grave reason to be worried. It is very, very, troubling. Of course, it’s causing chaos among witnesses.”
Bility urges the government to act swiftly to protect witnesses and signal that intimidation will not be tolerated.
“The government should make sure that they have the message for the public, ‘if you intimidate witness, if you threaten a witness, if you attack the witness and all victims, we will get you,’” he says. “That is very important. The government remaining silent on these issues is somewhat, in my view, discouraging.”
In a phone interview, Maxwell Grigbsy, director of the Witness Protection Agency of Liberia, said the government “sees the issue as a priority.”
“The government is prepared to work with this witness to evaluate the threat level,” says Grigsby. “And as much as we can, the government will provide support to ensure that the level of threat is minimized or elimenated.”
Sesay is the second accused Liberian warlord deported from the United States, following the removal of George Boley, a former rebel leader with the Liberia Peace Council, in 2012. Two others have been found guilty. Mohammed Jabbateh of the Ulimo rebel group is serving a 30-year sentence after being convicted in the same federal court in 2017. He will be deported at the end of his sentence. Tom Woewiyu, second in command to Charles Taylor of the National Patriotic Front of Liberia, was convicted in 2018 and was awaiting sentencing when he died of Covid in 2021.
Camara will return to Liberia two years after the anticipated war and economic crimes court is set to become operational. He would be eligible to face prosecution in that court because his U.S. conviction was for immigration fraud, not war crimes.
The Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court of Liberia, which is overseeing the establishment of both the war crimes court and a national anti-corruption court, recently submitted its long-delayed bills to Oswald Tweh, Liberia’s justice minister, and Bushuben Keita, President Boakai’s legal adviser. The bills will be reviewed by Tweh, the Cabinet and Boakai before being sent to the Legislature for approval — a process that could take weeks, or even months.
N. says he is willing to testify when the court is formed.
“Not only justice for my sister, but everybody that was in that container that died,” says N. “Because some of the people that were in the container, their parents were not around. So, we will tell the law that she did it. And those people that died, at least when they are in their graves, they got justice.”
This story is a collaboration with New Narratives as part of the “Investigating Liberia” project. Funding was provided by the Swedish Embassy in Liberia. The funder had no say in the story’s content.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/u-s-cdc-places-liberia-under-level-ii-health-advisory-over-clade-ii-monkeypox-outbreak/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:33:06 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131213Monrovia — The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has placed Liberia under a Level II (Practice Enhanced Precautions) Travel Health Advisory following a confirmed outbreak of clade II Mpox, citing sustained person-to-person transmission across the country. By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com The CDC said the current outbreak in Liberia differs from […]
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Monrovia — The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has placed Liberia under a Level II (Practice Enhanced Precautions) Travel Health Advisory following a confirmed outbreak of clade II Mpox, citing sustained person-to-person transmission across the country.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com
The CDC said the current outbreak in Liberia differs from the global clade II Mpox outbreak that began in 2022, which largely affected gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). In Liberia, however, health authorities report that both males and females are being infected in nearly equal numbers, signaling broader community transmission.
According to the CDC, person-to-person spread has been documented, including through sexual and other intimate contact, raising concerns about continued transmission if preventive measures are not strengthened.
Vaccination Recommended for At-Risk Travelers
In response, the CDC recommends Mpox vaccination for travelers to Liberia who expect to engage in certain sexual or intimate activities during their visit, regardless of sexual orientation.
Travelers are advised to complete two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine, administered at least 28 days apart. Those who have received only one dose are encouraged to obtain the second as soon as possible. The CDC noted that maximum protection is achieved about two weeks after the second dose, urging travelers to plan ahead.
The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) did not immediately respond to FrontPage Africa’s inquiry following the CDC alert but promised a response on Friday.
Rising Case Numbers
As of early November 2025, the Ministry of Health (MoH) reported 2,447 suspected Mpox cases since the outbreak began in September 2024. Of the 2,309 samples tested, 1,308 cases were laboratory confirmed, resulting in a positivity rate of 56.6 percent, an indication of significant ongoing community transmission.
Providing an update during a press conference, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Catherine T. Cooper said the figures were captured in Situation Report #87, covering November 3, 2025. She described the positivity rate as evidence of sustained transmission nationwide.
Dr. Cooper thanked President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, the Government of Liberia, and international partners for their continued support, noting that the Mpox response remains a top public health priority.
Geographic Spread and Outcomes
Health authorities reported 148 active cases currently under monitoring and treatment in infectious disease hospitals, isolation centers, and through home-based care. Montserrado County accounts for 57 percent of active cases, particularly in Bushrod Island, Commonwealth, Central Monrovia, and Somalia Drive. Nimba County follows with 18 percent, while Margibi, Grand Bassa, and Grand Kru counties collectively account for 16 percent.
Encouragingly, 1,154 patients have recovered, while Liberia has recorded six Mpox-related deaths, resulting in a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0.5 percent. Health officials attribute the low fatality rate to improved surveillance, early detection, and effective clinical management.
Despite these gains, Dr. Cooper cautioned that new suspected cases continue to emerge, stressing the need for sustained vigilance, community engagement, and resource mobilization.
Aggressive 90-Day Response Plan
To curb transmission over the next 60 to 90 days, the MoH, NPHIL, and partners have outlined an aggressive response strategy that includes intensified active case finding, timely treatment of confirmed cases, and strengthened services at the Liberia Center for Infectious Disease Hospital and other isolation facilities.
The plan also calls for refresher training for frontline clinicians, enhanced infection prevention and control measures, and robust risk communication efforts targeting community leaders, market associations, and youth networks. Public messaging will emphasize early reporting, hand hygiene, and awareness of sexual transmission risks.
Nationwide Vaccination Campaign
A major pillar of the response is the rollout of ring vaccination in Montserrado and other hotspot counties. Dr. Cooper announced that public sensitization will begin in November 2025, with vaccination scheduled from December 2025 to February 2026, targeting individuals 18 years and older.
Liberia has received 42,720 doses of Mpox vaccines, donated by partners including the U.S. CDC, Africa CDC, GAVI, UNICEF, and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). Authorities aim to administer all doses to high-risk populations by January 31, 2026.
National Targets
Between November 1, 2025, and January 31, 2026, the government aims to investigate at least 90 percent of suspected cases within 24–48 hours, ensure 100 percent of samples are tested with results available within 48 hours, and achieve zero preventable Mpox deaths by strengthening ICU capacity and clinician training. In addition, the government seeks to attain 80 percent public awareness on prevention and early care-seeking behavior and significantly reduce national Mpox cases and the positivity rate within 90 days.
Public Health Precautions Urged
The CDC emphasized that vaccination alone is insufficient and urged travelers to continue practicing preventive measures. Individuals at higher risk of severe disease—including pregnant women, infants under one year, people with active skin conditions, and immunocompromised persons—were advised to take extra precautions.
Travelers should avoid close contact with infected individuals, contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing, and wild animals, including rodents and non-human primates. The CDC also warned against consuming or handling bushmeat.
Anyone developing a new, unexplained skin rash—with or without fever or chills—is urged to seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers of any travel to Liberia within the previous 21 days.
The Level II advisory does not discourage travel, but signals the need for heightened vigilance. U.S. health authorities say they will continue to closely monitor the situation while working with Liberian and international partners to contain the outbreak.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-senator-konneh-proposes-bill-seeking-to-enforce-25-procurement-for-local-businesses-protecting-the-informer-economy/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:26:27 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131210CAPITOL HILL, Monrovia – Gbarpolu County Senator Amara Konneh has proposed a bill seeking to protect the informal economy of the country and enforce 25% Procurement for Liberian Businesses operating in the country during this Third Session of the 55th National Legislature. By Obediah Johnson, obediah.johnson@frontpageafricaonline.com Senator Konneh said the bill aims to protect Liberian workers […]
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CAPITOL HILL, Monrovia – Gbarpolu County Senator Amara Konneh has proposed a bill seeking to protect the informal economy of the country and enforce 25% Procurement for Liberian Businesses operating in the country during this Third Session of the 55th National Legislature.
By Obediah Johnson, obediah.johnson@frontpageafricaonline.com
Senator Konneh said the bill aims to protect Liberian workers in the informal economy and ensure that Liberian-owned small businesses receive the 25 percent share of public procurement guaranteed to them under existing law.
Speaking during a regular session in the Chambers of the Liberian Senate on Thursday, Senator Konneh emphasized that the livelihoods of market women, petty traders, motorcyclists, block makers, tailors, mechanics, and other informal workers must be placed at the center of national economic policy. “These hardworking Liberians make up nearly 68 percent of our labor force. They are the backbone of our economy, yet they operate without protection, without structure, and without access to the economic space our laws already guarantee them,” Senator Konneh stated.
He warned that Liberians are rapidly losing control of sectors explicitly reserved for them under the Liberianization Act, including petty trading, used clothing, small retail, transportation, auto repair, block making, and bakeries.
Informal Economy Development and Protection Act
Senator Konneh pledged that he would introduce a new legislative framework titled: The Informal Economy Development and Protection Act, designed to modernize and enforce the rights of Liberian informal workers. According to him, the proposed Act would recognize the informal economy as a legitimate sector of national importance and enforce the 26 business activities reserved exclusively for Liberians.
Senator Konneh added that it would also establish a unified registration and citizenship verification system and create designated trading zones with sanitation, security, and order.
He maintained that when enacted into law, the proposed Act would organize sector associations and set standards for formalization, protect Liberians from harassment, extortion, and arbitrary confiscation.
He maintained that the proposed Act would coordinate enforcement among Commerce, Immigration, Local Government, and the Police and expand access to microfinance, skills training, and business development support.
“Our people are being pushed out of their own economy because the State has failed to enforce its own laws. This bill will change that,” Senator Konneh noted.
Unlocking US$116.8 Million for Liberian Businesses
Senator Konneh also highlighted the long-neglected requirement that 25 percent of all public procurement be awarded to Liberian-owned SMEs in keeping with the Small Business Empowerment Act of Liberia.
He observed that the current FY2026 National Budget includes US$467.3 million in procurementeligible spending. He pointed out that out of the total amount, about US$116.8 million should, by law, go directly to Liberian businesses.
“If we formalize even a fraction of our informal operators, tens of millions of dollars can flow directly into the hands of Liberian market women, petty traders, block makers, tailors, mechanics, and microcontractors,” he said. “This is how we turn policy into prosperity and legislation into livelihoods.”
A Call for Economic Justice
Speaking further, Senator Konneh pointed out that empowering the informal economy remains essential for peace, stability, and national development.
“If we want peace, we must protect people’s livelihoods. If we want growth, we must empower our own citizens. The informal economy is where most Liberians work, and it must be organized, protected, and empowered,” he added.
He noted that the United States requires large companies to include small businesses in federal contracts, a policy that delivered US$178.6 billion to small firms in 2023 alone.
“Liberia can do the same. By enforcing our 25 percent SME procurement mandate, we can create thousands of jobs and return economic space to Liberians,” he stated
A People’s Bill
Senator Konneh, however, announced that he would conduct nationwide consultations to ensure the bill reflects the voices of ordinary Liberians. “Over the next few weeks, I will be engaging yana boys, phenphen riders, and market women to ensure their experiences and ideas directly inform this people’s bill,” he said.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-armed-forces-of-liberia-u-s-strengthen-medical-readiness-at-setaf-af-best-medic-competition/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:21:20 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131206MONROVIA — Medical professionals from the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) joined counterparts from Ghana, Italy, and the United States to test their medical proficiency during the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Best Medic Competition, held at Caserma Del Din in Vicenza, Italy, from January 5–15, 2026. By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com The […]
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MONROVIA — Medical professionals from the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) joined counterparts from Ghana, Italy, and the United States to test their medical proficiency during the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Best Medic Competition, held at Caserma Del Din in Vicenza, Italy, from January 5–15, 2026.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com
The AFL team delivered an exceptional performance, earning all four competitors the U.S. Army Achievement Medal (AAM), a prestigious award recognizing outstanding achievement or meritorious service that exceeds standard duties.
According to a release from the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, the event challenged 24 medical personnel to demonstrate physical endurance and technical proficiency under simulated combat conditions. For the first time in the competition’s history, the AFL fielded a four-member team, underscoring Liberia’s growing expertise in tactical combat casualty care.
The training aligns with the AFL’s strategic objective of establishing an independent tactical combat casualty care program. Liberian personnel have continued to sharpen these skills through sustained engagement with the Michigan National Guard under the State Partnership Program.
Participants underwent intensive instruction in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) response, resiliency and mindful movement, M4 carbine marksmanship, trauma care, and prolonged casualty care. The training culminated in a two-day competition designed to replicate the physical and mental demands of lifesaving operations in austere environments.
“This competition is about building medical excellence for the fight tonight,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Shanett Robinson, chief medical noncommissioned officer of SETAF-AF. “We’re creating a high-stress, interoperable environment where U.S. Soldiers and our international medics can validate their skills.”
The multinational setting enabled Ghanaian, Italian, Liberian, and U.S. medics to refine advanced capabilities in delayed evacuation and trauma management, ensuring greater interoperability and readiness to respond collectively to future crises.
Officials of the AFL say the exercise is part of a long-term partnership between Liberia and the U.S. Army, which dates back to the post-civil war rebuilding of Liberia’s security sector, when the U.S. played a central role in restructuring and professionalizing the AFL following its disbandment in 2003. With support from the U.S. Department of Defense, the AFL was reconstituted as a non-political, professional force grounded in democratic civilian control.
A key pillar of the relationship is the State Partnership Program (SPP) between Liberia and the Michigan National Guard, established to enhance military professionalism, operational readiness, and institutional capacity. Through this partnership, Liberian soldiers receive continuous training in areas such as medical readiness, disaster response, logistics, engineering, leadership development, and peacekeeping operations.
The U.S. military also supports the AFL through joint exercises, advisory missions, and specialized training programs coordinated by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), including engagements led by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF). These initiatives aim to strengthen interoperability, improve tactical skills, and prepare the AFL to respond effectively to both national security threats and humanitarian emergencies.
Over the years, the partnership has contributed significantly to the AFL’s ability to participate in international peacekeeping missions, respond to public health crises, and support civil authorities during national emergencies. Both governments have repeatedly described the collaboration as a long-term commitment to regional stability, professional military development, and shared security objectives in West Africa.
The Michigan National Guard and the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) partnership, established in 2009/2010 under the DoD’s State Partnership Program (SPP), aims to professionalize the AFL post-civil war, fostering mutual defense, democracy, and stability through exchanges in areas like NCO development, medical support, legal training, and logistics, building on Michigan’s long SPP history and Liberia’s need for self-sufficient security forces. Officials say this enduring relationship supports the AFL’s growth into a responsible, capable military, bridging security gaps in West Africa through shared knowledge and skill development.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-senator-dillon-boasts-of-strength-brushes-off-potential-2029-challengers/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:17:07 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131203PAYNESVILLE, – Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon has dismissed growing speculation about potential challengers to his seat in the 2029 senatorial election, asserting that possible contenders are intimidated by his political stature and electoral history. By Francis G. Boayue Speaking on Thursday during an appearance on the ELBC morning show, the Liberty Party lawmaker […]
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PAYNESVILLE, – Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon has dismissed growing speculation about potential challengers to his seat in the 2029 senatorial election, asserting that possible contenders are intimidated by his political stature and electoral history.
By Francis G. Boayue
Speaking on Thursday during an appearance on the ELBC morning show, the Liberty Party lawmaker projected strong confidence in his political standing, suggesting that his continued occupancy of the seat has discouraged rivals from openly declaring their intentions.
According to Senator Dillon, his presence in the Senate has effectively neutralized the ambitions of individuals who may be considering a run for the Montserrado County Senate seat.
He claimed that once he remains in the position, there is little incentive for others to contest, arguing that the silence from potential opponents is not accidental but rather a reflection of political fear.
Senator Dillon’s comments come amid subtle but persistent political maneuvering in Montserrado County as both ruling party figures and opposition actors quietly reassess their long-term strategies ahead of the next election cycle.
While the senator maintains that there is no credible threat to his seat, political analysts and observers argue that the political environment in Liberia’s most populous county is evolving and may present unexpected challenges as 2029 approaches.
Since his rise to prominence, Senator Dillon has established himself as one of the most outspoken and visible members of the Liberian Senate. His political ascent began with a decisive victory in the 2019 Montserrado County senatorial by-election, followed by a strong re-election in 2020 under the banner of the Collaborating Political Parties coalition.
His support base has largely been built around an anti-corruption message, aggressive legislative engagement, and a public image that resonates with urban voters frustrated by traditional political structures. However, critics contend that his confidence may underestimate the impact of shifting alliances and emerging political figures who are steadily gaining traction at the grassroots level.
Among the names frequently mentioned in discussions about a possible challenge to Dillon is Martin K. N. Kollie, a well-known activist, former student leader, and vocal advocate for governance reform and social justice. Kollie played a significant role within the Collaborating Political Parties framework that supported Senator Dillon’s successful senatorial bids in both 2020 and 2023.
During that period, both men were aligned around a shared political agenda focused on accountability, youth empowerment, and resistance to entrenched corruption.
Their collaboration extended beyond legislative politics. In the 2023 general elections, Kollie reportedly worked closely with Senator Dillon to mobilize youth groups and grassroots networks in support of the Unity Party. That effort contributed to the election of Joseph Nyuma Boakai as president, bringing the Unity Party back to power. Through this process, Kollie gained recognition as a strategic political organizer with growing influence among young voters in Montserrado County.
Despite their shared political history, political commentators suggest that a Kollie candidacy in the 2029 senatorial election could split Senator Dillon’s traditional support base. Both men are seen as appealing to similar segments of the electorate, particularly progressive voters and politically active youth who identify with reformist ideals.
Analysts argue that such a contest would not be a conventional rivalry but rather a competition between former allies drawing strength from the same ideological foundation. Although Kollie has not publicly declared any intention to contest, his continued engagement in national political debates keeps his name firmly in public discourse.
Another figure attracting increasing attention is Jefferson Koijee, Secretary General of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change and former Mayor of Monrovia. Following the CDC’s defeat in the 2023 presidential election, Koijee has largely remained outside the public spotlight. However, party insiders say he has been under mounting pressure from CDC supporters, particularly in Montserrado County, to consider contesting the senatorial seat in 2029.
Koijee is widely regarded as a disciplined party organizer with strong mobilization skills and a modest but effective communication style. He commands considerable influence among urban youth and long-standing CDC loyalists.
Montserrado County has historically been the CDC’s political stronghold, and despite losing control of the executive branch, the party continues to maintain a significant grassroots presence in the county. Observers believe that if Koijee decides to enter the race, he would emerge as a serious contender capable of challenging Dillon’s incumbency by leveraging both party machinery and personal popularity.
Beyond Kollie and Koijee, several other figures are quietly being mentioned as potential aspirants for the Montserrado County Senate seat. These include former lawmakers with strong district-level followings, senior technocrats, and private sector actors with deep community ties.
Some analysts also point to individuals aligned with the current administration who may view 2029 as an opportunity to translate executive or policy experience into legislative authority. The growing list of rumored aspirants underscores the possibility that the next senatorial contest in Montserrado County may be far more competitive than the incumbent senator currently anticipates.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-uncertainty-hangs-over-insurance-sector-as-cbl-seeks-enactment-of-commission-act/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:04:00 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131245MONROVIA –The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) has informed the House of Representatives about the critical need for the enactment of an Insurance Commission Act so as to fully regulate the sector. By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway In a communication to the House read during the second day sitting of the third session, first quarter of the […]
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MONROVIA –The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) has informed the House of Representatives about the critical need for the enactment of an Insurance Commission Act so as to fully regulate the sector.
By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway
In a communication to the House read during the second day sitting of the third session, first quarter of the 55th Legislature, CBL points out that enactment of the Act would transition the regulatory and supervisory responsibility of the insurance sector to an independent Insurance Commission in pursuant to PART II Subsection 6(0) of the Act Establishing the Central Bank of Liberia 1999 (The Act).
CBL reminded lawmakers that prior to the amendment of the Act, the Bank was given the mandate of five years to reform the sector and pave the way for a transition Commission following a comprehensive to an independent Insurance assessment of the sector’s status.
Based on the outcome of the assessment, the Central Bank was given an additional five-year transitional period (2020-2025) to continue its regulatory and supervisory oversight and facilitate the transition.
In fulfillment of this statutory mandate, CBL maintains that it successfully elevated the former Insurance Section into a full-fledged Insurance Department; thus, providing the required visibility in keeping with Section 6(0) of The Act.
In line with its statutory duties, the drafted an Insurance Commission Act, which was validated through a national stakeholders’ engagement and reviewed by the Law Reform Commission. Yet, the document is still before the watchful eyes of legislators.
Accordingly, the CBL intones that in the absence of the enactment of the Insurance Commission Act, the insurance sector will be left without a principal regulator.
Sadly, the Bank furthered that it will result in gaps in licensing, supervision, enforcement, and consumer protection, and hence, undermining the gains made in reforming this critical segment of the financial system.
“In view of the foregoing, the CBL respectfully seeks your guidance and leadership to facilitate the timely enactment of the Insurance Commission Act to ensure continuity of insurance regulation and safeguard the stability, integrity, and credibility of the sector and the broader financial system,” added the CBL communication.
Following the reading and subsequent deliberation of the communication, it was then forwarded to the Committee on Banking and Currency, Transport and Judiciary to report to Plenary within two weeks’ period.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-koijee-claims-public-vindication-as-former-accusers-admit-allegations-were-false/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:02:00 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131242Monrovia — Jefferson T. Koijee, former Mayor of Monrovia and current Secretary-General of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), has declared that recent public admissions by his critics have vindicated him, insisting that the numerous allegations leveled against him during his time in office were false and politically motivated. Koijee, a staunch CDC member, served […]
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Monrovia — Jefferson T. Koijee, former Mayor of Monrovia and current Secretary-General of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), has declared that recent public admissions by his critics have vindicated him, insisting that the numerous allegations leveled against him during his time in office were false and politically motivated.
Koijee, a staunch CDC member, served as Mayor of Monrovia from 2018 to 2024. His tenure was marked by persistent accusations ranging from administrative misconduct to corruption, allegations he consistently denied. In 2022, he was sanctioned by the Government of the United States, a move that intensified public scrutiny and political debate around his leadership.
Nearly two years after leaving public office, Koijee now claims that several of his former accusers and critics have openly acknowledged that the allegations against him were untrue and formed part of what he described as a coordinated propaganda campaign aimed at damaging his reputation.
According to Koijee, these false accusations not only affected his public image but also contributed directly to his sanctioning by the U.S. government.
In a lengthy personal statement released on Thursday, Koijee portrayed himself as a victim of what he called “malicious and vicious lies and propaganda,” both domestically and internationally. He said his political opponents underestimated his resilience, believing that sustained allegations and rumors would permanently destroy his career.
“They believed that if they talked long enough, loud enough, convincingly enough, the world would turn against me,” Koijee said. “But here I am, still standing, still moving, and that is what disturbs them the most.”
Koijee said he deliberately chose not to engage in public battles to defend himself, opting instead to focus on personal growth, discipline, and long-term goals. He argued that time and truth ultimately exposed what he called the emptiness of the accusations.
“The truth has a strange power; it does not need defending,” he stated, adding that while his critics remained fixated on the past, he was focused on building a future “no lie could touch.”
The CDC Secretary-General further accused the administration of President Joseph Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung, along with their allies, of allegedly spending significant resources lobbying for his sanctioning. He claimed the effort was intended to politically destroy him but ultimately failed.
“They hoped my name would collapse under manufactured narratives,” Koijee said. “Unfortunately for them, God alone is the author and finisher of my destiny.”
In a broader political jab, Koijee contrasted his personal sanctions with what he described as increasing international pressure on Liberia under the current administration, arguing that the country is now bearing the weight of strained international relations.
Koijee concluded by reaffirming his resolve to remain focused on results rather than retaliation, saying his survival and continued relevance are proof that the campaign against him failed.
“I did not argue with lies; I outgrew them,” he said. “I did not chase revenge; I chased results.”
The statement was copied to several international and regional bodies, including the African Union, ECOWAS, the European Commission, and the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/foreign-relations/liberia-mcc-compact-takes-shape-as-high-level-u-s-delegation-begins-liberia-mission/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:01:00 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131239Monrovia– Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact, as a high-level delegation from the U.S. government agency have begin technical engagements with government and national stakeholders. By Jaheim T. Tumu-jaheim.tumu@frontpageafricaonline.com The delegates, visit marks a critical milestone following the MCC Board’s decision in December 2025 to reaffirm Liberia’s eligibility for a second compact—an outcome that Finance and […]
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Monrovia– Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact, as a high-level delegation from the U.S. government agency have begin technical engagements with government and national stakeholders.
By Jaheim T. Tumu-jaheim.tumu@frontpageafricaonline.com
The delegates, visit marks a critical milestone following the MCC Board’s decision in December 2025 to reaffirm Liberia’s eligibility for a second compact—an outcome that Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan described as both hard-earned and historic.
In his remarks, Ngafuan recalled the series of engagements that led to the reaffirmation, including the growth analysis conducted in September and follow-up meetings in Washington, D.C.
He described the Board’s decision as “a truly good Christmas for our people,” underscoring the significance of the announcement for a country seeking to unlock new drivers of economic growth.
“These earlier missions, including the growth analysis in September and follow-ups in Washington, D.C., helped build the strong partnership that resulted in reaffirmation for a second compact,” Ngafuan said, noting that the path to eligibility was “challenging but ultimately successful.”
With eligibility secured, the Finance Minister emphasized that Liberia is now entering the most demanding phase of the process. “This is not the end; it’s the start of a process that will require effort, hard work, and a whole-of-government approach to achieving outcomes,” he said.
Ngafuan disclosed that government has begun preparations to operationalize a new MCC office in Liberia, announcing plans to expedite recruitment so that leadership is in place ahead of a key workshop scheduled for February. The workshop, he noted, will be central to shaping the direction of the compact.
He reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to working closely with MCC and development partners, thanking his technical team led by Deputy Minister Dehpue Zuo, as well as senior officials and sector ministries who have coordinated the country’s preparations.
He also acknowledged the role of broader government stakeholders in positioning Liberia for the compact’s development phase.
The MCC delegation is being led by Ms. Carrie Monahan, Managing Director for Africa at the Millennium Challenge Corporation, who underscored the competitive nature of the MCC selection process and the importance of Liberia’s past performance.
“We are extremely proud of the success of the first compact and the deep U.S.–Liberia partnership,” Monahan said, explaining that Liberia’s track record played a decisive role in the Board’s reaffirmation decision.
She noted that the delegation’s mission will focus on broad consultations and stakeholder engagements to map out the compact development process. “A major focus of our work this week will be stakeholder engagements and outlining the compact development process,” she said.
According to Monahan, MCC compacts are grounded in rigorous data analysis and inclusive consultations involving government, civil society, and the private sector. These consultations are designed to identify binding constraints to economic growth and craft targeted investments capable of delivering lasting impact.
She highlighted an upcoming “root cause analysis” workshop scheduled for February as a central milestone in the process. The workshop, she said, will deepen discussions on priority sectors where MCC investments could have “transformative impacts.”
Also addressing, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Joseph E. Zadrozny extended New Year greetings and stressed the importance of sustaining the partnership between Liberia and the United States as the compact development moves forward.
The delegation’s visit forms part of the initial phase of compact development and signals a renewed long-term commitment by both governments to promote economic growth, job creation, and stronger governance in Liberia through evidence-based investments.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-women-lead-liberias-seed-revolution-as-agriculture-ministry-certifies-five-seed-companies/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131236Monrovia — Women are increasingly closing the agriculture gap in Liberia, determined not to be left behind as the country strengthens its seed sector. This commitment was evident on Monday at the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) Ministerial Complex, where a two-day capacity-building workshop on Rules and Standards in Quality Seed Production and Marketing brought together […]
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Monrovia — Women are increasingly closing the agriculture gap in Liberia, determined not to be left behind as the country strengthens its seed sector. This commitment was evident on Monday at the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) Ministerial Complex, where a two-day capacity-building workshop on Rules and Standards in Quality Seed Production and Marketing brought together experts and participants from five seed companies across Liberia.
By Patience M. Jones
The training, organized under the guidance of the Seed Development and Certification Agency (SDCA), focused on improving compliance with national seed laws, certification procedures, quality control, and ethical marketing practices. At the end of the workshop, participants were formally awarded certificates in seed production by the Ministry of Agriculture—marking a historic step toward professionalizing Liberia’s seed industry.
Delivering welcoming remarks, Mr. Jobson A. Momo, Director General of the SDCA, emphasized the critical role seed companies play in national food security and agricultural transformation.
“This training comes at a time when the demand for quality seed continues to grow,” Mr. Momo said. “Seed companies are central actors in the agricultural value chain. Your responsibility—from production and processing to labeling, marketing, and compliance—directly affects farmers’ productivity and confidence.”
He encouraged participants to embrace professionalism, comply fully with seed regulations, and “change the narrative” of seed production in Liberia by doing the right thing. Mr. Momo urged donors and partners to support the Seed Agency with both technical and institutional capacities in providing basic services to the Liberia agricultural sector. These supports will enhance farmers to have access to quality seeds/seedlings, stressing that certified seeds/seedlings are safe, reliable, and vital for national food self-sufficiency.
One of the standout voices at the workshop was Madam Tewa Lusu Blama Duna, a trained seed producer from Mayo River Agricultural Corporation in Foya District, Lofa County, who called on more women to take bold steps in agriculture.
“This has been my dream for a very long time to become a certified seed grower,” Madam Duna said. “If farmers don’t have good seeds, they cannot get good yields. And without good yields, farming becomes discourage.”
She explained that the training deepened her understanding of seed cycles, isolation by time and isolation by distances – varietal purity knowledge she described as “life-changing” for seed growers.
“I learned that seeds should not be recycled endlessly. After three cycles of production (for rice seed), the seed must be renewed, or yields will drop. I also learned a new words during the training “isolation by time and isolation by distance”, a system to help growers prevent seed mixture during production cycle. These lessons will help us and the farmers we serve,” she added.
Madam Duna noted that access to viable, certified seed is key to keeping farmers on the land and supporting government efforts to increase domestic food production and productivity.
Mr. Mohamed Kamara, CEO and Founder of Agriculture Infrastructure Investment Company (AIIC) and President of the National Rice Federation of Liberia, described the training as a “giant step” for the seed industry.
“This is the first of its kind in Liberia,” Mr. Kamara said. “For decades, we have been yearning for a functional seed certification system. Without it, we cannot compete regionally or globally.” Special thanks and appreciation to the Minister of Agriculture and the government to have deemed it necessary for the operationalization of the SDCA that has been dormant since 2019.
With over a decade of experience in seed production and collaboration with institutions such as CARI, AfricaRice, and IITA, Mr. Kamara said the training broadened participants’ understanding of compliance, documentation, field management, and seed handling.
“Certification is not just a paper it is a process. You must be registered, follow isolation and compliance rules, document your activities, and meet quality standards. This training has strengthened our capacity to do that,” he emphasized.
He encouraged all certified seed companies to put the lessons into practice and close any gaps that could undermine competitiveness.
The training formed part of the broader Capacity Building of those first batch of the Seed Companies on Rules and Standards in Quality Seed Production and Marketing, aimed at improving compliance, strengthening internal quality control systems, and promoting ethical seed marketing.
The project targets 25 management and technical staff from Nine seed companies and supports Liberia’s wider agricultural agenda of boosting food security, farmer confidence, and private-sector-led growth.
The Seed Development and Certification Agency (SDCA) established under the Liberia Seed Development and Certification Agency Act of 2019—is Liberia’s principal authority for seed regulation, certification, and seed sector development. Operating as a semi-autonomous agency under the Ministry of Agriculture and the oversight of the National Seed Board, SDCA plays a central role in enforcing quality standards, registering seed companies and varieties, regulating imports and exports, and supporting local seed industry development. It is also a key partner in the EU-funded Seeds4Liberia initiative, which promotes resilient seed systems for major crops.
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https://frontpageafricaonline.com/education/liberia-tapson-breaks-ground-to-elevate-public-school-to-senior-high/#respondFri, 16 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000https://frontpageafricaonline.com/?p=131233Monrovia – A young Liberian humanitarian, Fate Bobby Tapson, has officially broken ground for the elevation of the St. Paul Public Elementary and Junior High School to a senior high division, with a call on government and others to invest in the education of young people across the country. By Obediah Johnson The school is located in […]
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Monrovia – A young Liberian humanitarian, Fate Bobby Tapson, has officially broken ground for the elevation of the St. Paul Public Elementary and Junior High School to a senior high division, with a call on government and others to invest in the education of young people across the country.
By Obediah Johnson
The school is located in the St. Paul Bridge community in District # 16, Montserrado County. The community has been without a public high school for several decades.
On Thursday, January 15, Tapson broke ground for the construction of an annex at the school to expand access to quality education.
The annex will include six (6) modern classrooms, a library, and a computer laboratory.
Speaking during a brief groundbreaking ceremony held on the school premises, Tapson, who is also a son of the community, disclosed that the gesture is aimed at elevating the institution to a senior high division to expand access to quality education for students in the St. Paul Bridge community and other parts adjacent.
He expressed the hope that the elevation of the MCSS school would turn doubt into confidence, potential into purpose, and dreams into direction.
“Today is more than a start of a project. Today marks the beginning of possibility. Giving back to my people is what matters most to me. If even one life is changed through education, I will be fulfilled. I only need their prayers for me for good health and long life. Seeing my people happy is my greatest reward,” Tapson added.
He disclosed that the project was birthed from a simple, yet powerful belief, that every student deserves to be seen, heard, and empowered to walk in their greatness.
Tapson observed that though Liberian students have been defined by their circumstances, struggles, environment and their past, his gesture to elevate the institute should remind the students that their future is not limited by any of those things as their respective stories are still being written.
“As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. Today, we are placing that power directly into the hands of our students—by giving them tools, guidance, support, and most importantly, belief.
He emphasized that the project would create a space where students can discover their strengths, believe in themselves before the world does, and know they are not walking this journey alone. He noted that real change begins with courage—the courage to imagine something better, and the courage to act on it.
“Today, this district chooses courage. Today, we choose our students. This program is not just an idea. It is a commitment. A commitment to hope. Education saves lives, transforms communities, and secures the future. When we uplift education, we uplift humanity. A commitment to opportunity and investing in young people—because when we invest in students, we don’t just change individual lives; we shape the future of our entire community,” he added.
He encouraged the students to seize the moment and remember—that one of their own has returned, not just to give back, but to stand in the gap and make an impact in the lives of many young students and in the district and other parts adjacent.
“I come today carrying a clear message of hope. I represent a generation of young people who were denied opportunities, overlooked, and underestimated by society. Yet despite every obstacle, we are still standing, still striving, and still believing.
And today, that belief is being passed on,” he added.
Tapson used the occasion to commend the students for choosing vision and remaining courageous and steadfast towards their studies.
He, however, pledged his unflinching commitment and support to education and community development and initiatives.
In separate remarks, the administration and students of the school, the elders and leadership of the community lauded Mr. Tapson for the gesture.
The Community Chairman, Philipboye Merchant, recounted the numerous constraints parents have faced over the years in sending their children out of the community to acquire secondary education.
He observed that the St. Paul Bridge community has been without a senior high public school for a prolonged period of time, and as such, the completion of the project will help ease the financial burdens students and their respective parents are encountering.
He disclosed plans by elders and leaders of the district to officially recognize and appreciate Mr. Tapson for the impactful contributions he continues to make towards improving lives and supporting education, sports, and others in the district.
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