By Staff Writer | Smart News Liberia
MONROVIA – The Liberian People’s Party (LPP) has raised alarm over growing tensions along the Liberia–Guinea border, warning that recent developments in Lofa County could threaten regional stability if not urgently addressed through transparency and decisive action.
In a press statement issued April 22, 2026, the party said it is “deeply concerned” about reports that Guinean troops allegedly crossed into Liberian territory near the Makona River, where they are accused of seizing equipment and raising their national flag on disputed land.
According to the LPP, the situation escalated around March 2, 2026, when Guinean soldiers reportedly entered areas near the Sorlumba border crossing and Konadu Town in Lofa County. The party noted that these actions allegedly disrupted key infrastructure efforts, including the construction of the Foya–Vahun road, a project considered critical to regional connectivity.
The LPP further claimed that the troops confiscated sand mining equipment in the area, an action that has heightened tensions among local communities and raised broader concerns about territorial integrity and resource control.
While condemning the alleged incursion, the party also emphasized the need for balance and transparency, particularly in light of unverified claims that mining activities may have taken place on the Liberian side of the Makona River without the consent of Guinean authorities. “If these claims are accurate, they could lead to significant legal implications under both international law and Liberia’s mining regulations,” the statement noted.
The party stressed that international norms governing shared water resources require consultation between neighboring states before undertaking projects that could affect mutual interests. It added that Liberian law equally mandates proper authorization for mining activities to ensure environmental and legal compliance.
The LPP warned that actions by private individuals, companies, or even public officials may have contributed to the current crisis, insisting that “there should be a thorough and impartial investigation into these matters” to establish the facts and assign responsibility.
Reaffirming its stance on national sovereignty, the party declared, “No corporation, interest group, or government official can be considered above the sovereignty and security of the Republic of Liberia,” urging vigilance to safeguard the country’s peace and stability.
The statement also reflected on the long-standing relationship between Liberia and Guinea, describing it as one built on “sacrifice, restraint, and African solidarity.” The LPP noted that both countries have historically avoided border conflicts, even during turbulent periods such as the administrations of Samuel Doe and Charles Taylor, as well as during Liberia’s civil war.
The party emphasized that this legacy of peaceful coexistence must be preserved, particularly under the leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, whom it urged to demonstrate “the highest level of maturity and wisdom in governance.”
While welcoming the President’s reported decision to temporarily suspend mining activities in the Makona River area, the LPP described the move as “a necessary step” but cautioned that it must be followed by a “comprehensive, transparent, and independent inquiry” to fully assess the situation.
The party is now calling for the establishment of an independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate the border incidents, clarify the facts, address allegations of military incursions, and recommend measures to prevent further escalation. It said such a body should also ensure accountability, strengthen national security, and protect communities in Lofa County.
“The establishment of this independent Commission of Inquiry is vital for ensuring peace, stability, and a clear understanding of the territorial dynamics between Liberia and Guinea,” the LPP stated, adding that restoring public confidence in the government’s ability to safeguard national interests must remain a top priority.
