Articles by Pastor Joseph Costa

Lofa County University Holds Research Writing and Grant Proposal Development Workshop for Faculty

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:47:39 GMT

Lofa County University Holds Research Writing and Grant Proposal Development Workshop for Faculty.

Lofa County University (LCU) conducted a one-day workshop on Research Writing and Grant Proposal Development today, gathering 85 faculty and staff members in a renewed effort to strengthen the university's research capacity and position it as a leading research institution in Liberia. The workshop aimed to enhance the research and grant-writing skills of faculty and staff, enabling them to compete for research funding, produce high-quality scholarly work, and improve the university's academic reputation.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop, Dr. Washington Kezelee, Vice President for Research and Grants, encouraged faculty members to actively engage in research. He noted that quality research enhances individual academic reputations and positively impacts the overall ranking of the university. Dr. Kezelee emphasized that universities worldwide are typically assessed and ranked based on the quality and impact of their research output. He urged participants to take advantage of the training to develop competitive research and grant proposals.

Additionally, Dr. Adama Gross, Vice President for Academic Affairs, challenged faculty and staff to take research and grant proposal development seriously. He stressed that successful grants attract financial resources, create opportunities for institutional growth, and contribute to national development.

The workshop featured presentations from several experienced facilitators, including Fred Tosiah, Director for Research and Grant; Varney Kromah, Assistant Director for Research; and Yanwoi Suborbi, Dean of Extension. They shared practical knowledge on research methodologies, proposal writing, and strategies for securing grant funding.

This workshop is part of Lofa County University's ongoing commitment to promoting a strong research culture and advancing academic excellence through innovation, collaboration, and knowledge generation.

Torrential Rains Flood Abidjan, Disrupting Traffic and Trapping Residents

Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire — June 29, 2026 Torrential rains have inundated several neighborhoods in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire’s economic hub, leaving vehicles stranded and residents trapped as floodwaters surged through the city overnight into Monday.

Heavy rainfall that began late Sunday continued into Monday morning, submerging roads and cutting off access in multiple districts. Among the worst-hit areas were 9 Kilos, Songon Carrefour Hévéa, Treichville’s Rue des Cimenteries, the Paillet–Carrefour des Deux Plateaux axis, and Carrefour Zone in Yopougon. Eyewitnesses reported that rising waters rendered key thoroughfares impassable, forcing commuters to abandon vehicles and wade through flooded streets.

The national weather service had issued an Orange Alert for the Autonomous District of Abidjan ahead of the storm, warning of a high risk of flooding and urging residents to remain vigilant. Authorities reiterated calls for residents to avoid low-lying areas and flooded roads as rains are expected to persist.

The flooding underscores the recurring challenges posed by Côte d'Ivoire’s annual rainy season. According to the National Office of Civil Protection (ONPC), last year’s rains claimed 18 lives, inundated 79 homes, and damaged 47 public infrastructure facilities. Emergency services remain on high alert as they monitor conditions across the city.

Hormuz Traffic Drops After Saturday Strike On Vessel

Strait of Hormuz traffic slowed over the weekend after a vessel was struck while transiting the waterway on Saturday, and a fresh exchange of strikes between the United States and Iran strained their preliminary deal to end the conflict.

In total, 29 commodity vessels crossed on Saturday and 12 transited on Sunday, according to data from the maritime tracking firm Kpler.

Sunday’s figures marked a sharp decline from last week, when a memorandum of understanding signed by Tehran and Washington on June 15 boosted traffic through the strait to its highest level since the start of the Middle East war, reaching 70 crossings on Wednesday, according to Kpler.

Despite Iran’s warning against using unapproved shipping lanes, vessels continued to take several routes through the waterway over the weekend.

After a vessel was struck while transiting the strait on Saturday morning, ships continued for several hours to use a southern corridor through Omani waters before traffic appeared to slow, according to the Kpler-owned website MarineTraffic.

The website tracks only vessels with active transponders, meaning additional ships may have crossed with their signals switched off.

More ships entered the Gulf over the weekend than departed, reversing a trend seen over the previous week, when efforts focused on evacuating seafarers stranded in the Gulf.

A UN-led operation to evacuate 11,000 seafarers was suspended on Thursday after a vessel was struck in the Gulf of Oman.

Four tankers and a container ship used the southern Omani corridor to enter the Gulf on Sunday, escorted by US Navy vessels, according to a post on X by HFI Research.

No vessels used that corridor to exit the Gulf on Sunday, according to Kpler.

Total figures may rise further as crossings are identified retrospectively, notably through satellite imagery.

Iran said Monday that it had held its first meeting with Oman to discuss managing the strait, as Washington warns it will not accept transit fees for using what it considers an international waterway.

Liberia’s Civil Service Chief Faces Backlash Over Political Rally Appearance

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:59:18 GMT

Liberia’s Civil Service Chief Faces Backlash Over Political Rally Appearance

Monrovia, Liberia — The Director General of Liberia’s Civil Service Agency (CSA), Dr. Josiah F. Joekai Jr., is under mounting public pressure following his participation in a political rally organized by Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah in support of President Joseph Boakai’s anticipated 2029 re-election campaign.

The event, held on Sunday in Monrovia under the banner of the National Independent Movement for Boakai (NIMBO), drew large crowds and featured President Boakai alongside senior government officials. Videos circulating on social media showed Dr. Joekai wearing NIMBO-branded attire and dancing during the rally, sparking accusations that he breached Liberia’s Code of Conduct, which requires civil servants to remain politically neutral.

Criticism from Lawmakers and Clergy

Senator Amara Konneh of Gbarpolu County condemned Joekai’s actions, warning that partisan involvement by civil servants undermines the integrity of public institutions. Konneh cited past dismissals of government employees under previous administrations for similar violations, arguing that Liberia risks perpetuating a cycle of politically motivated firings whenever power changes hands.

Bong County Representative Marvin Cole went further, calling for Joekai’s immediate dismissal. “He has desecrated the civil service,” Cole declared, accusing the CSA chief of hypocrisy for previously removing employees accused of partisan activity. “Mr. President, if you did not see it, may God open your eyes,” he added, urging President Boakai to act.

Former Liberia Council of Churches President Bishop Kortu Brown also joined the chorus of critics, insisting that Joekai must resign if he violated the same rules he enforced against others. “The Civil Service Agency must be above politics,” Brown said, urging an investigation to restore public confidence.

Joekai’s Response

In a Facebook post responding to Senator Konneh, Dr. Joekai defended his attendance, arguing that the Code of Conduct does not apply to him as head of the CSA but rather to other civil service employees. He explained that the rally was organized by a close friend, and he felt obliged to attend and “grace the occasion.” Joekai did not directly address the criticism over wearing NIMBO-branded attire but maintained that his presence was personal rather than partisan.

Broader Debate on Civil Service Neutrality

The controversy has reignited debate over political neutrality in Liberia’s civil service. Part Five of the country’s Code of Conduct prohibits presidential appointees from engaging in political activities, canvassing, or using government resources for partisan purposes. Critics argue that consistent enforcement of these rules is essential to prevent political victimization and safeguard democratic institutions.

As of press time, Dr. Joekai has not issued further public statements beyond his Facebook response.

Liberia Watchdog Report Highlights Weak Legislative Accountability During Constituency Break

Monrovia, Liberia — A new report by Naymote Partners for Democratic Development has raised concerns over the lack of accountability and citizen engagement among Liberian lawmakers during the 2026 legislative constituency break.

The nationwide monitoring assessment, released Monday, evaluated how members of the National Legislature used the break period — mandated under Article 32(b) of the 1986 Constitution — to engage constituents, assess community priorities, and report on their legislative performance.

Findings of the Assessment

Using its Constituency Accountability and Assessment Tool (CAAT), Naymote monitored activities in 69 of Liberia’s 73 electoral districts, covering approximately 95 percent of the country. The exercise, conducted between March 19 and May 8, 2026, deployed 75 trained monitors across all 15 counties.

Key findings include: 55 lawmakers (80 percent) visited their districts; 44 lawmakers (64 percent) held town hall meetings or consultations; 32 lawmakers (46 percent) used local radio to interact with citizens; and only 18 lawmakers (26 percent) presented structured reports on legislative activities, budget decisions, or constituency performance. The report noted that most activities centered on project inspections, dedications, donations, and ceremonial appearances, with limited emphasis on policy dialogue or structured accountability mechanisms.

Citizen Concerns

During town hall meetings, citizens repeatedly raised issues including poor healthcare delivery, inadequate roads and infrastructure, limited access to quality education, unemployment, and lack of youth and women’s empowerment initiatives.

Naymote’s Position

“Democratic representation must go beyond ceremonial appearances and political visibility,” said Eddie Jarwolo Sr., Executive Director of Naymote. “Citizens deserve regular access to information about how their lawmakers are performing, how public decisions are being made, and what actions are being taken to address local concerns.”

The organization warned that constituency accountability remains largely informal, fragmented, and weakly institutionalized, undermining public trust and limiting citizens’ ability to evaluate elected officials.

Recommendations

In response, Naymote is calling for sweeping reforms to strengthen transparency and citizen-centered governance. The organization recommends the mandatory adoption of standardized constituency reporting requirements for lawmakers during every constituency break, including disclosure of legislative interventions, committee participation, budget decisions, and constituency development activities. It also proposes the establishment of a formal Legislative Constituency Engagement Framework requiring lawmakers to hold structured town hall meetings and public consultations in their districts.

Further recommendations include the publication of constituency engagement schedules and post-break activity reports by the Legislature, greater use of community radio and local media platforms to improve public participation, and stronger collaboration between the Legislature, civil society organizations, media institutions, and development partners to institutionalize accountability standards. Naymote also called for the development of a national legislative accountability policy that would establish minimum standards for citizen engagement, transparency, reporting, and responsiveness by elected officials.

The organization urged the leadership of the National Legislature to move beyond voluntary practices and adopt enforceable accountability measures that guarantee citizens regular access to information and meaningful participation in governance. Naymote reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democratic accountability, inclusive participation, and responsive governance through evidence-based monitoring and advocacy.

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?