President Joseph Boakai has issued three executive orders to address pressing national concerns within 24 hours.
On Monday, February 24, President Boakai issued Executive Orders 141 on Mandatory Firearm Registration, 143 on the Protection of Liberia’s Beach fronts, Waterways, and Wetlands, and 144 to Enhance Support for Refugees and Vulnerable Populations in Liberia.
According to Executive Mansion releases, President Boakai has issued orders mandating the registration of all civilian-owned firearms, establishing a Taskforce Against the Encroachment on Beach fronts, Waterways, and Wetlands, and reinforcing the government’s commitment to integrating former refugees while expanding access to social services and safety nets for vulnerable populations.
The release stated that, Executive Order 141 comes in response to the growing national security threats posed by illicit firearms, including military-style weapons, which have contributed to rising incidents of armed violence, including armed robberies and other criminal activities.
Adding, the proliferation of unregulated small arms poses significant risks to Liberia’s peace, security, and economic development.
“Under Executive Order 141, all individuals in possession of military-style weapons and single-barrel guns must register and obtain a permit and license from the Liberia National Commission on Arms (LiNCA) and the Liberia National Police (LNP) within a 12-month period from the effective date of this order,” the release said.
Key provisions of the Executive Order include the mandatory registration of civilian-owned firearms in accordance with national firearms regulations, the marking and recording of registered firearms in the national database to enhance traceability, and the voluntary surrender of illicit and unauthorized firearms including craft weapons and military-style arms to LiNCA for processing and potential registration.
The order outlines legal consequences for non-compliance, including administrative sanctions and criminal prosecution after the stipulated registration period.
This order aligns with Liberia’s commitments under international and regional arms control agreements, including the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty and the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
The Government has also made significant strides in securing state-owned weapons through enhanced marking, inspection, and stockpile management and has urged all firearm holders to comply within the specified timeframe to contribute to a safer and more secure Liberia.
“The Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with LiNCA, will oversee the enforcement of the Executive Order, working closely with county and district authorities to ensure full compliance,” the release noted.
The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, alongside development partners, is expected to support the operational plan for implementation.
However, Executive Order 143 underscores the government’s commitment to protecting Liberia’s natural resources, mitigating environmental degradation, and ensuring public health and economic sustainability.
With growing concerns over pollution, erosion, and climate change, the Executive Order seeks to curb harmful activities that threaten marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
President Boakai emphasized that the unchecked encroachment and pollution of wetlands, waterways, and beach fronts pose significant risks to both the environment and the livelihoods of Liberians.
The newly formed Taskforce, chaired by the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and co-chaired by the Chairman of the Liberia Land Authority, comprises key government stakeholders, including the Ministers of Justice, Internal Affairs, Public Works, Mines and Energy, and Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism, as well as representatives from the Liberia National Police and local municipal authorities.
Under its Terms of Reference (TOR), the Taskforce will halt the degradation and back-filling of wetlands, waterways, and beach fronts; implement restoration measures for affected areas, enforce wetlands regulations in collaboration with the EPA, support local authorities in managing conservation efforts, and report and document violations, ensuring legal action against offenders.
In addition to that, it will raise public awareness on the environmental and economic benefits of preserving these ecosystems, monitor and evaluate conservation programs, and prevent the use of non-eco-friendly pesticides.
Liberia’s signing of the Ramsar Convention in 2003 reaffirmed its commitment to wetland conservation, and this Executive Order builds upon that foundation by strengthening enforcement mechanisms.
The Taskforce will work closely with the National Climate Change Steering Committee to ensure coordinated action and sustainable environmental management.
President Boakai has directed the immediate implementation of this Executive Order, reinforcing Liberia’s leadership in environmental governance and climate resilience.
President Boakai called on all citizens, businesses, and local communities to support this effort to protect the nation’s natural heritage for future generations.
Meanwhile, Executive Order 144 builds upon the foundation set by Executive Order 108, which has since expired, and aligns with Liberia’s international obligations under the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol.
Recognizing the persistent challenges of poverty, joblessness, and inadequate infrastructure, the Government of Liberia is taking decisive action to ensure social protection and stability for all, particularly former Ivorian refugees who have chosen to remain in Liberia following the implementation of the Cessation Clause in June 2022.
Registered former Ivorian refugees who opt for permanent residence in Liberia will benefit from simplified legal procedures, ensuring access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and housing.
The process for permanent residency and documentation will be accelerated and provided at no cost, facilitating their full integration into Liberian society.
Eligible vulnerable populations, including former refugees, will be enrolled in social safety net programs through the Liberia Household Social Registry. Beneficiaries will receive or renew National Identification (ID) cards at no cost, ensuring their full participation in national programs and economic activities.
The Ministry of Justice will coordinate with the Liberia Immigration Service, the Liberia Refugee, Repatriation and Resettlement Commission, and the UNHCR to facilitate legal status processing and work permits for former refugees.
The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection will collaborate with government agencies to ensure the seamless enrollment of eligible vulnerable populations into national assistance programs.
President Boakai re-echoed his administration’s dedication to protecting the rights of all residents in Liberia, emphasizing that social inclusion and economic empowerment are fundamental to national stability and progress.
“This Executive Order reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind. By prioritizing the integration of refugees and expanding access to social services, we are strengthening our national fabric and fostering a more inclusive and resilient Liberia,” said President Boakai.
The Executive Orders take immediate effect, marking a significant step toward the government’s goal of equitable development and social cohesion.
