The United Citizens Massive Action Against the Repeal of the Local Government Act (LGA) of 2018 has announced that June 30, 2025, will be a day for petitioning the Liberian House of Representatives in Gbarnga, Bong County. Bong County Superintendent Hawa Loleyah Norris and Senator Johnny Kpehe, who leads the County Legislative Caucus, are expected to receive the petition. This petition aims to be presented to President Joseph Nyumah Boakai and Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, urging them to stop the proposed repeal of part of the Local Government Act of 2018.
Aaron G. V. Juaquellie, director of the Foundation for International Dignity (FIND), expressed concern that repealing the Act would prevent ordinary Liberians from participating in local governance and decision-making processes affecting their lives. Juaquellie, a prominent advocate, stated that returning power to the Legislature could undermine Liberia’s efforts to decentralize governance, which is intended to empower local populations.
He emphasized that the Local Government Act aims to distribute power and resources from the central government to local officials. The goal is to enhance the functionality and responsiveness of local governments by bringing them closer to the communities, increasing citizen involvement in decision-making, and ensuring accountability.
According to Juaquellie, the Act could empower local communities by granting them greater control over their development and resources, thereby improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure at the local level. He noted that this was the reason the Local Government Act was enacted in 2018 under the administration of former President George M. Weah.
Juaquellie highlighted that decentralizing government authority is crucial for Liberia’s growth and stability. It allows citizens to influence decisions that impact their communities and equips local leaders to address local issues effectively.
He explained that the law represents a significant reform in local governance, granting previously unavailable powers to local authorities. Notably, the County Council includes representatives from women’s groups, youth organizations, disabled individuals, chiefs, elders, and various community groups.
A civil society advocate from Bong County emphasized that inclusive representation is vital for promoting equal rights and ensuring that all individuals, especially women and people with disabilities, have a voice in local decision-making. This is particularly important for addressing the historical exclusion of women from government processes. “We’re opposed to any changes to the Local Government Act of 2018, as it would undermine the County Councils,” he stated.
Juaquellie reiterated their commitment to preserving the law in its current form. He clarified that the Local Government Act is not merely a privilege but a legislative measure stemming from the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which advocated for decentralization.
He announced that community groups and citizens from Bong County would unite to protest against the House of Representatives’ intentions to repeal the Local Government Act of 2018. He encouraged everyone to attend the petition submission at the House of Representatives.
Recently, Representative Jeremiah Sokan Sr. introduced a bill titled “An Act to Repeal Section 2.2 Sub-Sections (e & f) of the Local Government Act of 2018” during the 10th session of Liberia’s Legislature in the second quarter of the current session.
The lawmaker from Electoral District #1 in Grand Gedeh County argued that excluding the County Legislative Caucus from oversight activities undermines the system of checks and balances necessary for effective local governance. Hon. Sokan expressed concerns that this could lead to diminished transparency and accountability in the management of county resources. The proposed bill seeks to eliminate Sub-Section 2.2(e), which pertains to yearly approval of the county budget, and Sub-Section 2.2(f), which covers the approval and execution of a county development plan. The Plenary has instructed the Committees on Good Governance, Ways, Means and Finance, Internal Affairs, and Judiciary to review the bill and provide feedback within two weeks.
The Local Government Act of 2018 is a crucial piece of legislation in Liberia aimed at empowering local communities by decentralizing authority from the central government. It alters decision-making dynamics and reallocates resources to local governments, fostering greater community participation and a sense of ownership over developmental initiatives.
By Phi Jacob Kermue /Bong County Reporter
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