By Grace Q. Bryant
The Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Jerolinmek Piah, has addressed growing concerns regarding the United States’ recent deportation of illegal immigrants and criminals, as well as the suspension of all USAID activities worldwide.
Speaking at the MICAT regular press briefing on February 6, Minister Piah clarified the Liberian government’s stance and ongoing efforts to engage with U.S. authorities on these critical issues.
Minister Piah began by acknowledging the recent announcement from the United States government regarding the deportation of illegal aliens and criminals, a policy that has raised concerns in various parts of the world, including Liberia.
He clarified, however, that the government has not been formally informed about any large-scale deportations directly tied to the new immigration policies.
“To date, Liberia has only been notified of four deportees, with three of them expected to arrive in the country this week,” he disclosed.
Piah emphasized that these deportations were part of a process that began before the Trump administration’s recent move to implement mass deportations, and they are not linked to the current policy changes.
Minister Piah announced that Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been actively engaging with U.S. authorities to ensure proper communication and understanding.
“The Minister of Foreign Affairs has written to the U.S. Secretary of State, and discussions have been ongoing between the Liberian government and the U.S. Ambassador to address the situation. These engagements are focused on ensuring that the concerns of Liberians living in the U.S. are appropriately addressed,” he revealed.
He further explained that the Liberian government has also reached out to key diaspora organizations for their input and support. A virtual meeting was convened, led by Liberia’s Ambassador to the U.S., Conté, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Madam Sarah Bistro Nyanti. More than 100 participants from various Liberian diaspora groups took part in the discussions.
According to him, several recommendations came out of the meeting, including the creation of a hotline for Liberians in the U.S. to access assistance. “This will be made possible with the help of a Liberian volunteer in the U.S. who has offered technical support.”
Additionally, the government encouraged all Liberian associations to coordinate their efforts and avoid any actions that might undermine diplomatic engagement.
The meeting underscored the need for continued engagement with U.S. Legislators who have historically supported Liberian causes, such as Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island.
In anticipation of a potential increase in deportations, the Liberian government has activated an inter-agency task force. This task force, which is chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, includes members from the Ministry of Justice, the Liberian Immigration Service, the Liberia National Police, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Ministry of Finance.
The task force held its first meeting on February 5 and continues to develop plans to address the potential impact of any mass deportations. Minister Piah assured the public that the government is prepared to handle the situation and will continue to monitor developments closely.
Another significant issue raised was the suspension of all USAID activities worldwide, which is expected to have a major impact on Liberia. USAID has been a key contributor to various sectors in Liberia, including health, education, agriculture, and the rule of law. Minister Piah revealed that President Boakai has tasked all relevant sector leads, including those in health, education, agriculture, and other ministries, with conducting impact analyses and creating mitigation plans.
President Boakai is deeply concerned about the potential consequences of the suspension of USAID funding, particularly for Liberia’s most vulnerable citizens.
The President has emphasized the government’s commitment to working closely with the U.S. to find a resolution to these issues, ensuring that the interests of Liberia are safeguarded.
Minister Piah concluded by noting that while Liberia does not have the power to control U.S. policy decisions, the government remains committed to dialogue and negotiation to protect the welfare of its citizens both in Liberia and abroad. “Liberia will continue to engage in formal diplomacy, strategizing and advocating for the best possible outcomes for its people.”