NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia says it is “in full charge” of a developing border dispute with neighbouring Guinea, stressing that diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent any escalation.
Speaking on Tuesday, Justice Minister Oswald Tweh said recent developments along the northern frontier in Sorlumba, Foya District, Lofa County, have prompted increased monitoring by Joint Security forces and high-level diplomatic engagements.
By: Gegee Brima
He said the government has, since March, dispatched several delegations to address the situation, including a mission to Conakry on 13 March for talks with Guinean officials.
Those efforts culminated in a regional meeting involving President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., Julius Maada Bio, and Mamadi Doumbouya in Conakry.
According to Liberian authorities, the leaders signed a joint communiqué reaffirming their commitment to territorial integrity, peaceful coexistence, and long-standing cross-border ties. The government said the document did not reference maps or boundary demarcations.
“The Government wants to inform the Liberian public that it is in full charge of the situation and will continue to address it with the highest degree of maturity and wisdom necessary to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the ministry said in a statement.
Security Measures and Public Caution
Authorities say Joint Security forces have been reinforced along the border, describing the deployment as a measure to maintain calm and ensure a visible state presence.
Officials stressed that the move is intended to reassure citizens rather than provoke tensions, urging residents of border communities to remain calm and preserve long-standing relations with their Guinean neighbours.
The government also indicated that the Mano River Union is expected to convene in the coming days to help address the situation.
At the same time, officials warned against inflammatory commentary in both social and traditional media, saying such content could fuel fear and unnecessary provocation.
The ministry cautioned that it would take lawful action against individuals whose conduct is deemed harmful to national stability, while reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law and press freedom.
It also warned the public about the circulation of “fake AI-generated images” online, urging citizens to verify information before reacting.
Diplomatic Approach
Government officials say the response is being led at the highest level, with President Boakai personally overseeing diplomatic engagements and working with regional partners to maintain peace.
They described the joint meeting with Sierra Leone’s president as a demonstration of regional cooperation aimed at preserving stability.
As diplomatic and security efforts continue, the government has called on citizens to prioritise national unity, describing the situation as a test of patriotism.
The situation remains fluid, with authorities promising to provide further updates as discussions progress.
