Articles by Pastor Joseph Costa

Liberia’s House Passes Bill Barring Officials from Serving on Public Boards

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:08:00 GMT

Liberia’s House of Representatives has passed legislation prohibiting active government officials from serving on the boards or management of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public corporations, in a move aimed at strengthening governance and accountability.

The bill, adopted during the House’s 19th sitting of its third session, builds on existing fiscal policy that already bars officials from receiving sitting fees for board service under the 2024–2025 budget framework. Lawmakers say the measure will eliminate conflicts of interest, prevent double compensation, and promote transparency in the management of public institutions.

The legislation was introduced by Representative Anthony F. Williams of Maryland County Electoral District 2.

In his submission, Williams outlined five objectives, including enhancing oversight, ensuring efficiency, and safeguarding against decisions that could serve personal interests. He argued that the measure would also encourage job creation by opening opportunities for qualified professionals outside government.

The bill further establishes a framework for independent supervision and transparent oversight of public institutions. It is expected to expand funding opportunities by enabling boards to attract and manage financial and development resources independently.

The House Committees on Judiciary and Good Governance reviewed the proposal and recommended its passage. Following deliberations, the plenary unanimously approved the measure, which now advances to the Senate for concurrence in line with legislative procedure.

If enacted, the law would mark a significant step in Liberia’s efforts to strengthen institutional independence and ensure responsible use of public funds.

LCU Board Concludes Strategic Retreat, Approves Key Policies and Partnerships

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:00:56 GMT

Gbarnga, Bong County – The Board of Trustees and Senior Staff of Lofa County University (LCU) have successfully concluded a two-day strategic retreat held from March 13–14 in Gbarnga. During this retreat, they made significant decisions aimed at strengthening governance, accountability, and academic quality at the university.

The retreat primarily focused on addressing the key challenges facing the university and identifying practical measures to improve its operations. By the end of the session, the Board approved 19 policies developed under the leadership of University President Dr. Isaac Podah. Additionally, they established two Memoranda of

Understanding (MOUs): one with Ahmadu Bello University in Nigeria and another with the Change Agent Network in Fessibu Town, Zorzor District.

Under the partnership with Ahmadu Bello University, faculty members from the Colleges of Agriculture, Engineering, Science, and Technology will have opportunities to pursue advanced studies, which will enhance their professional capabilities. Meanwhile, the MOU with the Change Agent Network will enable Lofa County University to take control of institutional assets in Fessibu, valued at over US$450,000. This transfer follows a request from local stakeholders, including citizens of the Zorzor and Salayea Districts.

The planned takeover aims to expand the university’s infrastructure and support its long-term development agenda. The Board has tasked the administration with engaging relevant authorities, including the Lofa County Legislative Caucus, to ensure a smooth and transparent process.

Among the key policies approved is the Academic Policy, which establishes standards for teaching, learning, grading, and curriculum development. The Finance and Petty Cash Policies introduce stricter financial controls to enhance transparency and accountability. Additionally, the Procurement Policy defines clear procedures for acquiring goods and services. Other policies include the Internal Audit Policy to improve oversight, the Risk and Infrastructure Policy to address safety and sustainability concerns, the Fixed Assets Policy for proper management of university property, and the Study Leave Policy to guide staff development, among others.

A Historic Milestone

University officials described the outcomes of the retreat as a major milestone, noting that it represents the first comprehensive set of policies adopted since the institution's founding.

These decisions are expected to improve institutional management, enhance academic delivery, and position Lofa County University for sustained growth and stronger partnerships.

At the conclusion of the retreat, Board Chairman Rev. Victor Padmore commended members for their commitment and described the discussions as productive. He urged continued collaboration to advance the university’s development.

Liberia’s Anti-Corruption Law Amendments Spark Constitutional Debate

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:18:21 GMT

A heated legal debate unfolded in Liberia’s Senate on Wednesday as the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the Law Reform Commission (LRC) clashed over proposed amendments to the country’s Anti-Corruption Law. At the center of the dispute is a controversial provision that would shift the burden of proof in corruption cases from prosecutors to the accused.

The Proposed Amendments

Drafted by the LRC, the legislation seeks to introduce illicit enrichment laws in line with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC). The reforms would require public officials to justify wealth that significantly exceeds their lawful income.

Cllr. Bornor Varmah, Chairperson of the LRC, argued that the changes are essential to strengthen accountability, deter bribery, and enhance Liberia’s credibility with international financial institutions. He told senators that the reforms would help recover stolen assets, redirect funds to public services such as healthcare and education, and position Liberia as a more attractive destination for foreign investment.

“The law would establish a paradigm shift in the burden of proof,” Varmah explained. “Once the state demonstrates a financial discrepancy, the accused must provide a reasonable explanation for their assets.”

LACC’s Constitutional Concerns

The LACC, however, raised strong objections. Chairperson Cllr. Alexandra K. Zoe warned that shifting the burden of proof undermines constitutional protections against self-incrimination, citing Articles 20(A) and 21(b) of Liberia’s 1986 Constitution.

“While the Commission welcomes the removal of statutes of limitations and the criminalization of illicit enrichment, we are deeply concerned that shifting the burden of proof may violate constitutional rights,” Zoe told lawmakers. She cautioned that such contradictions could lead the Supreme Court to dismiss corruption cases, weakening the fight against graft.

Zoe also criticized provisions allowing the removal of LACC officials by the executive branch, arguing that such measures would compromise the Commission’s independence. “We can be investigating the executive, yet the same executive has the power to remove us at will. That undermines the robustness of our institution,” she said.

Legislative Review Continues

Despite objections raised during the drafting process, Zoe noted that the LRC insisted on retaining the disputed clauses. Senators concluded the hearing after hours of testimony, pledging to continue consultations with integrity institutions as the review process moves forward.

Representatives from the Office of the Ombudsman and the Governance Commission also attended, though the latter was dismissed because its chairperson has not yet been confirmed by the Senate.

The debate underscores Liberia’s struggle to balance aggressive anti-corruption measures with constitutional safeguards, a challenge that will shape the country’s governance and international standing in the years ahead.

Why is Bassa Youths embracing a Proposed Youth

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:25:30 GMT

Why is Bassa Youths embracing a Proposed Youth-based Political Party ?

BUCHANAN, Liberia — In a country where political loyalty often follows long-established party lines, a quiet shift is unfolding among young voters in Grand Bassa County. A youth-driven political movement—still in its formative stage—is drawing growing interest from students, young professionals, and traditional youth leaders, challenging the dominance of Liberia’s established parties.

Grand Bassa has long been considered a bellwether of Liberian politics. The Liberty Party historically enjoyed deep roots here, while the ruling Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has made notable inroads in recent years. In Buchanan, the county’s capital, a CDC candidate won the most recent House of Representatives election, reinforcing the party’s expanding footprint.

Yet beneath these familiar political currents, a new force is emerging.

Over the weekend, a group of young political organizers carried out an intensive grassroots campaign across Grand Bassa, holding house-to-house meetings, engaging students in intellectual forums, and hosting public discussions aimed at

introducing a proposed youth-based political party. The effort was deliberately low- profile but highly targeted, focusing on mobilization rather than spectacle.

John Saylay Singbae II, one of the movement’s lead advocates, has become a sharp critic of what he describes as the political “co-optation” of Liberia’s youth. “Young people are constantly told they are the leaders of tomorrow,” Mr. Singbae told a gathering in Buchanan. “But you cannot actively enable politicians to destroy your future and still claim that you are a future leader. What future are we talking about?”

This message appears to be resonating.

Accompanied by Daniel Harris Jackson, a former young representative candidate in Grand Bassa; Aloysius “Jackieboy” Diggs, a well-known Bassa soccer figure; and student leader Aaron Kerkula, and a decent support from young Liberian in the diaspora, Mr. Singbae’s team met with youth groups across the county, including young traditional leaders often overlooked in national politics. While attendance figures were modest and events received little media attention, participants say the discussions struck a chord. Several young attendees volunteered to organize locally, signaling what organizers describe as a growing appetite for youth-led political alternatives.

The appeal reflects broader frustrations among Liberia’s young population, which makes up a majority of the country’s citizens but remains underrepresented in decision-making. High unemployment, limited access to quality education, and persistent patronage politics have fueled skepticism toward mainstream parties.

“This is less about personalities and more about ownership,” said one student participant. “Young people want a platform that speaks directly to their realities.”

Grand Bassa is not the only county seeing such momentum. Similar mobilization efforts were reported recently in Margibi County, where youth groups have also expressed support for the proposed party. Organizers suggest additional counties may follow.

Whether the movement can translate grassroots enthusiasm into a formal political structure, and eventually electoral success, remains to be seen . Liberia’s political landscape has historically favored established parties with access to resources and networks. Still, analysts say the rise of youth-centered organizing signals a potential recalibration of political engagement in the country.

“For years, young people have been mobilized as foot soldiers,” said a political observer in Monrovia. “What’s different here is the emphasis on agency and leadership, not just participation.”

As Liberia looks toward future elections, Grand Bassa’s youth may be offering an early glimpse of a generational shift, one that could reshape how political power is contested in the country.

In Margibi, a Young Voice Urges Liberia’s Youth to Stop Waiting to be rescued—and Start rescuing themselves.

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 20:22:41 GMT

KAKATA, Liberia — On a humid afternoon in Kakata, the message cutting through the static of media platforms in Margibi was neither cautious nor conciliatory. It was a challenge.

“You cannot keep waiting for politicians to rescue you,” John Saylay Singbae II told listeners, his voice steady but urgent. “They will never do for you what you can do for yourselves.”

Singbae, a son of Margibi County and a rising figure in Liberia’s youth political circles, was speaking less as a commentator than as a provocation. In a country where more than half the population is under 35, young people have long been central to political mobilization, but rarely to political power. Singbae’s message sought to confront that contradiction head-on.

For decades, he argued, Liberia’s youth have been treated as expendable foot soldiers in political battles, mobilized during campaigns, deployed as personal security, and discarded once elections are won. “Many of you dedicate your lives to protecting politicians as they engage in plunder,” he said. “And when they reach echelon of power, you are left desperate.”

your lives to protecting politicians as they engage in plunder,” he said. “And when they reach echelon of power, you are left desperate.”

It is a familiar grievance, but one that Singbae delivered with unusual bluntness. He accused political elites of deliberately sustaining youth dependency, using unemployment, tribalism, patronage, and even drugs as tools of control. “They fear you because you are young,” he said. “They know that once you become conscious of your power, you will stop calling them ‘leader’ or ‘teacher.’”

Mr. Singbae’s comments come after months of quiet but determined organizing. Before returning to Kakata, he had traveled across Liberia, visiting university campuses, community centers, labor unions, and youth groups. His aim, he said, was not to launch another personality-driven movement, but to help young Liberians recognize their collective leverage.

When asked about the structure of the movement he is advocating, Mr. Singbae was careful to downplay individual leadership. He described it instead as a nationwide effort, drawing young people from all 15 counties as well as the Liberian diaspora. He called it “a final beacon” — a space for youths to transition from being rally singers and street mobilizers into policymakers and leaders.

The appeal appears to be resonating. In less than three months, the movement has attracted a growing base of young supporters, many of whom say they are ready to engage in sustained political mobilization rather than episodic protest. For some, Singbae’s message feels overdue.

Liberia’s postwar political order has often celebrated youth participation rhetorically, while sidelining young people from meaningful decision-making. This gap, analysts say, has bred frustration, apathy, and cycles of manipulation. Against that backdrop, Singbae’s intervention has been described by supporters as timely, and by critics as confrontational.

But for Singbae, the stakes are clear. “The power has always been with the youth,” he told listeners. “The tragedy is that the youth have allowed others to use it against them.”

Whether his call will translate into lasting political change remains uncertain. What is clear is that, in Kakata and beyond, a growing number of young Liberians are beginning to ask one of the biggest questions rarely voiced so publicly: If we are the majority, why are we still waiting for permission to lead?