By Grace Q. Bryant
Representative Marie Johnson has urged the Liberian government to take swift action in preparation for the imminent arrival of deportees from the United States.
In her March 18 address, Rep. Johnson emphasized that many affected individuals have lived in the U.S. for years, with little to no ties to Liberia.
“Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and colleagues, as you may be aware, President Trump has pledged to carry out one of the largest deportation efforts in U.S. history, targeting undocumented immigrants, including Liberians. Thousands have already been deported, and we must be prepared to welcome our citizens home and support their reintegration into society,” she stated.
She proposed a series of immediate measures, including assessing the number of affected Liberians, implementing reintegration programs, engaging diplomatically with the U.S. government, and launching public awareness campaigns to help returnees navigate their transition.
Rep. Fody Fahnbulleh echoed Johnson’s concerns, calling on the Liberian government to evaluate its relationship with international partners.
He urged the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the head of the Liberian Immigration Service to appear before the House and clarify whether the U.S. has provided an official list of deportees and the reasons for their removal.
“It is time for us to invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the head of the NRS to inform us whether the U.S. government has shared any official list of deportees. If some have committed serious crimes, we must determine whether they require rehabilitation or special monitoring upon arrival,” he said.
He also stressed the need to avoid repeating past deportation crises, such as the recent return of Liberians from Ghana, which left many struggling without housing, employment, or social support.
Rep. Ivar Jones took a broader perspective, highlighting that the deportation issue reflects a deeper national challenge, Liberia’s inability to retain its citizens.
“Liberia is the oldest independent country in Africa, yet our people continue to leave due to limited opportunities at home. This should be a wake-up call. If we don’t make our country more attractive to its own people, they will keep leaving; only to face deportation later,” he said.
Jones urged the legislature to prioritize investment in education, healthcare, and employment to build a Liberia where skilled professionals, such as doctors and engineers, feel encouraged to return and contribute to national development.
With deportations already underway, lawmakers are pressing the government to act quickly. The House of Representatives is expected to hold further discussions with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and immigration authorities in the coming days to develop a coordinated response.
Lawmakers warn that failure to act now could lead to severe humanitarian and economic consequences.
