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Showing posts from February, 2025

Liberia: Nimba County Lawmaker Representative Samuel Kogar Ordered to Repay US$1,000 Alimony to Ex-Wife

Author: Berenice Mulubah The Supreme Court of Liberia has ordered that Nimba County District #5 Representative Samuel Kogar must retroactively pay his ex-wife, Romatta Yoada Kogar, the original alimony amount of US$1,000.00 from the date of the last payment. Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a financial payment ordered by the court from one spouse to another after divorce, intended to help maintain a similar standard of living. Referring to Civil Procedure Law, Rev. Code: 1.16.21, the court explained that certiorari is a special procedure used to review and correct decisions made by officials, boards, or agencies acting judicially, or to examine an intermediate or interlocutory judgment of a court. Section 9.3 of the Domestic Relations Law states that, in any case brought during the lifetime of both parties to annul a void marriage or obtain a divorce, the court may direct the husband to provide appropriate support for the wife during the litigation period, as the court...

Liberia: EPA Orders Shutdown of Steel Factory After Worker’s Death

Author: Berenice Mulubah The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has fined the Sethi Ferro Fabrik Steel Factory $5,000 after a fatal explosion at its Gardnersville oxygen plant on February 17, 2025. The incident, resulting from an oxygen cylinder explosion, led to the death of worker Saah J. Samukai. An EPA investigation revealed significant safety lapses, including insufficient fire safety measures, improper gas tank handling, lack of emergency exits, and expired environmental permits. Consequently, the EPA ordered the plant's closure on February 19. Despite these issues, the EPA recognized the factory's contribution in providing free medical oxygen to hospitals and agreed to grant a temporary 90-day permit once the fine is settled and safety measures are initiated. A comprehensive environmental audit is required before full operations can resume. The EPA has committed to strict monitoring to ensure compliance and uphold its dedication to workplace safety and environm...

Liberia: Representative Taa Wongbe Responds to Criticism with Sarcastic Rebuttal Amid District #9 Project Unveiling

Author: Berenice Mulubah Facing backlash on social media for his inaugural project for District #9 in Nimba County, Liberia, Representative Taa Wongbe chose to address his critics with a touch of sarcasm. In his statement, he remarked: “Your will balance and be just fine! After the solar lights come on, and the flowers grow in a few months (on nursery now), y’all should just stop here and buy fruits, vegetables, etc. from our women. I am sure some of you will use the bathroom and sit under the other structures we are putting together, and even take pictures. Jeh laugh now.” Taa Wongbe

Liberia: Representative Taa Wongbe Faces Backlash Over First District #9 Project

Author: Berenice Mulubah On February 20, 2025, Representative Wongbe shared photos of his initial project aimed at benefiting his district. However, the comment section quickly became filled with criticism, with many accusing the project of lacking innovation and modernization, describing the infrastructure as reminiscent of the 1800s. Even his supporters expressed their disappointment in the lawmaker.

Liberia: Ministry of Finance and Development Planning Directs Fiscal Prudence Amid Resource Scarcity

Author: Berenice Mulubah The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning has issued a strict directive to government spending entities, instructing them to "prioritize their priorities" due to the ongoing scarcity of resources under the Unity Party-led administration. In a recent memo signed by Finance Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan and sent to Ministries, Agencies, and Commissions, the Ministry stressed the importance of being mindful of limited resources. Strict instructions have been given for all government spending entities to stick to their approved budgets for Fiscal Year 2025 and to practice fiscal prudence in what is described as a "challenging fiscal environment." Furthermore, the Ministry reminded government institutions of the importance of effectively managing their budgets. The Ministry also informed government institutions that the budget is merely a projection until revenue is raised through the efforts, dedication, integrity, and sacrifice...

Liberia Revenue Authority Seizes 1,500 Rounds of Ammunition in Anti-Smuggling Operation

Author: Berenice Mulubah The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), through its Anti-Smuggling and Intelligence Units, handed over 1,500 confiscated single barrel rounds to the Liberia National Commission on Small Arms and the Liberia National Police. Customs Anti-Smuggling Officers recently intercepted the ammunition at the Bololewee Sub-Port in Yekepa, Nimba County. According to an LRA release, two suspects, Musa and Sidibe, were arrested in connection with the smuggling attempt. They were traveling in a six-tire truck that initially entered Liberia through the Customs Sub-Port in Yekepa. Both individuals have since been turned over to the Liberia National Police for further investigation and legal proceedings. The LRA emphasized its unwavering commitment to efficient tax administration, transparency, and professionalism to contribute to Liberia's development and prosperity. The agency highlighted that the seizure and handover of dangerous and illicit substances are in line with ...

Liberia: Assets Recovery Team Uncovers Major Corruption and Theft Scandal, High-Profile Seizures and International Cooperation

Author: Berenice Mulubah The Assets Recovery team has confirmed and confiscated 17 high-profile cases involving public asset theft, suspicious property acquisition, and theft through fake road construction companies, construction firms, and liquid assets. According to reports, many Liberians believed to be persons of interest have illicitly transferred suspicious funds from their accounts, changed bank accounts, illegally moved GOL vehicles to neighboring countries for sale, and altered the original identity of these vehicles and title deeds overnight to falsify the documentation of GOL assets. At a MICAT press briefing on Thursday, APRET head Cllr. Edwin Kla Martin stated that their surveillance and intelligence unit is on high alert and those involved will be identified and exposed. Cllr. Martin mentioned that AREPT has established international partnerships with several countries including the UK, Ghana, and Nigeria. In support of AREPT, a partner from the UK is expected in Li...

Liberia: Prince Horace Urges Liberian Comedians to Embrace Authenticity

Author: Berenice Mulubah According to Prince Horace, adding Nigerian comical sound effects into Liberian comedy does not make it funny for the Liberian audience. Liberians have unique sound effects that reflect their culture and sense of humor. For example, sound effects from CR, Yekeh, and PK can be used to connect with Liberian culture and comedy. These local sound effects have cultural importance and subtlety that Nigerian sound effects lack in this setting. As Prince Horace says, using these particular Liberian sound effects might make the humorous experience more authentic and accessible to the local audience.

Liberia: Speaker Koon Orders Police to Forcefully Remove Representative Yekeh Kolubah Car Amidst Legislative Power Struggle

Author: Berenice Mulubah On February 18, 2025, a dramatic scene unfolded at the Capitol Building in Monrovia, Liberia. Speaker of the House Richard Nagbe Koon, who was controversially declared Speaker by the Majority Bloc, ordered the Liberia National Police to forcibly break into Representative Yekeh Kolubah's car. The car was parked in the designated parking space for the Speaker, a spot traditionally used by Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. Representative Kolubah, a staunch supporter of Speaker Koffa, had deliberately parked his vehicle in the Speaker's reserved spot as an act of defiance against Koon's claim to the speakership. In response, Koon ordered the police to remove the vehicle. The officers used a drill to forcefully unlock the car, drawing sharp criticism from lawmakers opposed to Koon's leadership. The Rule of Law Caucus, composed of lawmakers who support Speaker Koffa, condemned Koon's decision to use force, describing it as a dangerous precedent for ...

Dopést Sôund: The Maestro Behind Liberia's Musical Renaissance

Author: Berenice Mulubah In today's vibrant Liberian music scene, Dopést Sôund stands out as a leading figure. This skilled music producer has created captivating beats that resonate with fans and music lovers across the country. Dopést Sôund's journey to becoming a music sensation began in 2018 with the release of "Keep The Peace Alive," a powerful collaboration with iconic Liberian artists Soul Smiter and Takun Jb. This track was more than just music; it was an anthem promoting unity and resilience in Liberia. The release showcased Dopést Sôund's exceptional production skills and solidified his reputation as a rising star in the industry. Since that milestone, Dopést Sôund has continued to produce a remarkable series of chart-topping hits that dominate playlists and radio stations. His production credits include the sultry rhythms of L Drez's "Single Lady," which exudes confidence and charm, as well as energetic tracks like "Dehlay Way...

Liberia: Founding CDC Member Solomon C. George Resigns: Accuses Former President George Weah of Betrayal and Intimidation

Author: Berenice Mulubah Solomon C. George, a founding member of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) and former Representative for Montserrado District #7, has officially resigned from the party. In his resignation letter, George accused former President George Weah of intimidation, abuse, and betrayal. He cited years of internal corruption, dishonesty, and a lack of transparency within the party as reasons for his departure. George's grievances included being marginalized and blocked from CDC communication platforms for the past four months. He also claimed that his dissenting views led to threats against his safety. Despite his long-standing loyalty to the party and personal relationship with Weah, George felt that the party had deviated from its founding principles and become a platform for "wicked, ungodly people" exploiting Weah's popularity for personal gain. The resignation has sent shockwaves through Liberia's political landscape, raising questi...

Liberia: A Call for Tectonic Repositioning: Mulbah K. Morlu Jr.'s Vision for Transforming Liberia's Political Landscape

Author: Berenice Mulubah Mulbah K. Morlu Jr., the leader of the advocacy group Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), has made a bold statement about his intentions for Liberia. He emphasized that upon his return to Liberia, he plans to initiate significant changes that will "shake" and "reposition" the country. Morlu used the metaphor of "tectonic repositioning" to describe the magnitude of the changes he envisions. He believes that the past year has ended the "honeymoon" period for the current administration and that it is now time to confront and oppose the status quo. Morlu's vision involves a political upheaval where he aims to "scatter things all over" in order to fix them properly. This suggests a comprehensive overhaul of the existing political landscape, targeting corruption, inefficiency, and other systemic issues. He has been critical of President Joseph Boakai's leadership, citing concerns about the presid...

Liberia: Former Montserrado Representative Ceebee Barshell Faces Contempt Charges Over Child Support Failures

Author: Berenice Mulubah Former Montserrado County Representative Ceebee Barshell is facing contempt of court charges by the Monrovia City Court for allegedly failing to provide support for his nine-year-old son. The charge arises from Barshell's purported failure to obey a court order requiring him to cover his son's school fees, feeding, and rent, totaling $1,900 USD. According to our judicial correspondent, this court order was issued due to Barshell's alleged noncompliance. The child's mother, Zoe Hanries, stated in an interview that the former lawmaker has consistently failed to make full payments, often providing the money "in bits and pieces." Barshell has been summoned to court to explain why he should not be held in contempt for not adhering to the court's order. Ms. Hanries is seeking for Barshell to fulfill his responsibilities, as their rent, amounting to $900 USD, is due this February.

Liberia: President Boakai Suspends NAFAA Director General Madam Emma Metieh-Glassco

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has, effective immediately, suspended Madam Emma Metieh-Glassco, Director General of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NAFAA), as recommended by the NAFAA Board of Directors pending further investigation by the Ministry of Justice and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC). In a communication to Mrs. Glassco, the President outlined the Board’s resolution, which calls for her suspension due to managerial and financial inefficiencies. This recommendation is in accordance with Section 3.9.2 of the Act that established the Authority. Furthermore, the President also referenced a communication from the Office of the Ombudsman, which recommended Mrs. Glassco’s suspension and investigation based on allegations of insulting behavior. This conduct, considered unbecoming of a public official, was reportedly exhibited during an official investigation meeting. The Ombudsman’s recommendation is based on Section 11.10 of the Code of Conduct...

Celebrating Liberian Talent: The Artistic Triumphs of NAP KING JEF, Highlighted by Dr. Clarence Moniba

Liberia's political leader, Dr. Clarence Moniba, recently showcased a notable Liberian talent, NAP KING JEF, on his social media. JEF has gained recognition for his artistry across several African countries and created an impressive 3-foot concrete mask, demonstrating his exceptional skill and dedication. He also crafted the County Welcome Signs donated by Dr. Clarence Moniba. According to Dr. Moniba, “Liberians have an abundance of talent. What we truly need are more opportunities to show our brilliance to the world. Let's celebrate and support our own.”