MONROVIA — Liberia’s correction officers have received their first new uniforms in seven years, a move hailed as a significant morale booster for personnel who have long worked under challenging conditions. The uniforms were officially presented during a ceremony at the Monrovia Central Prison (MCP) on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, led the distribution and used the occasion to commend correction officers for their dedication and sacrifices. “Despite the daily challenges you face, your commitment to duty reflects true patriotism and discipline. On behalf of His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, I extend the government’s profound appreciation for your service to our country,” he told the assembled officers.
Cllr. Tweh acknowledged that correction officers have endured years of limited logistical support, low salaries, and insufficient benefits. He assured that the government is actively working to address these issues. “We recognize the enormous challenges in the corrections sector, from inadequate working tools to infrastructure deficits. The government remains committed to finding sustainable solutions,” he said.
Deputy Minister for Administration and Public Safety, Cllr. Cora Hare Konuwa, praised the Bureau of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s leadership for advocating on behalf of both staff and inmates. She noted ongoing efforts with the Civil Service Agency and the Ministry of Health to improve conditions for inmates with mental health concerns while addressing officers’ salaries and benefits.
Assistant Minister for Corrections and Rehabilitation, Atty. Gabriel F. Ndupellar, revealed that the new uniforms would be distributed to correctional facilities across all fifteen counties. He described the initiative as a symbol of recognition for officers who uphold discipline under difficult circumstances and thanked senior Ministry officials for their support.
Director of Prisons, Cllr. Saye Charles Guinkpa, emphasized the persistent challenges facing correction officers and called on the government to continue supporting staff motivation. Officers at the ceremony expressed gratitude, calling the initiative a positive step toward improved working conditions and renewed pride in their service.
The event was attended by key partners, including Rev. Francis Kollie, Country Director of Prison Fellowship Liberia; Mr. Standley Cooper, Head of the Parole Board; Monrovia Central Prison Superintendent, Mr. Roosevelt Varney; assistant directors of the BCR; and other distinguished guests.
The distribution of new uniforms reflects a renewed government commitment to strengthening Liberia’s justice and security sector while improving the welfare of those tasked with maintaining order in the nation’s correctional facilities.
