MONROVIA – Prominent Liberian lawyer and political figure Tiawan Saye Gongloe has issued a strong warning to Joseph Nyuma Boakai, vowing to launch a campaign for his impeachment if the government fails to investigate and act against those responsible for the escalating Liberia–Guinea border crisis.
Speaking on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Monrovia, Gongloe sharply criticized the government’s handling of the situation, raising serious allegations that illegal mining activities along shared waterways may have triggered tensions with neighboring Guinea.
Gongloe emphasized that while Guinea’s response may appear excessive, the root cause of the conflict must not be ignored. He pointed to “unofficial reports” suggesting that individuals within the Liberian government were engaged in unauthorized gold and diamond mining in disputed waters, a move he described as a violation of international law.
According to Gongloe, any mining activity along shared rivers between two countries requires mutual consent, warning that unilateral actions risk provoking diplomatic and security crises. He stressed that such conduct, if proven, could explain the growing hostilities along the border.
“If President Boakai does not act, then he is complicit, and I will launch a campaign for his impeachment,” Gongloe declared, making his position the central and most forceful response yet from a public figure on the issue.
He called for what he described as a “serious and thorough investigation,” insisting that any official found culpable, whether in the executive or another branch of government, must face consequences ranging from dismissal to prosecution.
The controversy comes amid rising tensions in border communities, particularly in Konadu Town in Lofa County, where residents have accused Guinean authorities of encroaching on Liberian territory. Reports indicate that Guinean forces have hoisted their national flag in a disputed bush area and established a presence since early March.
Local authorities, including District Commissioner Losene Duly, have confirmed that Guinean soldiers remain stationed in the area, approximately 1.5 kilometers from the recognized boundary point, raising fears among residents about sovereignty and security.
While the Liberian government, through local leadership, has assured citizens of its commitment to resolving the matter diplomatically, Gongloe’s statement introduces a new level of political pressure on the administration.
The situation has been further complicated by allegations from Jefferson Tamba Koijee of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change, who accused Local Government Minister-designate Francis Sakila Nyumalin of involvement in illicit mining activities along the Makona River.
Koijee claimed that Nyumalin owns dredging equipment allegedly used in illegal mining operations, further alleging that such activities have fueled tensions and undermined Liberia’s sovereignty.
However, Nyumalin has strongly denied the accusations, describing them as baseless and politically motivated. During his confirmation hearing, he maintained that he has no involvement in mineral extraction activities and challenged authorities to investigate him.
“I am not part of any such activity,” Nyumalin stated, adding that he is prepared to face prosecution if any evidence is found linking him to wrongdoing.
He also argued that mining activities along the Makona River are not new, noting that local communities have engaged in sand mining for decades, long before current political actors emerged.
