MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Government of Liberia has expressed deep concern over the planned crackdown and deportation of undocumented individuals from the United States, as well as the suspension of USAID’s global programs, including those in Liberia.
In a statement issued on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah said that while the Liberian government has not been officially informed about mass deportations of its citizens under the US government’s new immigration policies, four Liberians who had already been processed before the latest announcement will be arriving in the country this week.
To address the issue, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti has written to the US Secretary of State, requesting a meeting to explore alternatives to deportation. Additionally, the government is engaging members of the US Congress at both state and federal levels to advocate for alternative solutions. The Embassy of Liberia in Washington recently convened a virtual meeting with Liberians in the United States, moderated by Ambassador Dr. Al Hassan Conteh and Minister Nyanti, which concluded with a commitment to stronger diplomatic efforts on the matter.
At home, the Liberian government has activated an Inter-Agency Task Force to prepare for any potential mass deportations. The task force, chaired by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, includes the Ministries of Finance and Development Planning, Justice, Internal Affairs, and Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism. Other agencies involved are the Liberia National Police, Liberia Immigration Service, and the Liberia Refugees, Repatriation and Resettlement Commission.
Regarding the suspension of USAID’s activities, Minister Piah stated that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has directed key sector leaders in agriculture, education, health, and the rule of law to conduct an immediate impact analysis and develop mitigation plans. USAID funding plays a crucial role in Liberia’s development, and the government is assessing ways to minimize disruptions caused by the suspension.
Piah emphasized that while Liberia cannot dictate US policy decisions, the government remains committed to engaging in dialogue, negotiations, and strategic planning in the best interest of its citizens. He assured that President Boakai’s administration is working closely with the US government to find common ground on both the deportation issue and the suspension of USAID programs.
