X-Ray Global

17/11/2025

-Controversy Rocks LBS Over Blue Star 5/90 Lotto Collaboration...

The launch of the Blue Star 5/90 Lotto Games by the National Lottery Authority (NLA) has triggered widespread public criticism, particularly over the use of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS), a state-owned media institution, to facilitate and televise the lottery operations.

What the NLA described as an important step toward modernizing Liberia’s gaming sector has instead raised questions about transparency and the legality of the arrangement.

Since the unveiling of the lottery system, several public figures and commentators, including social media personality Will Debo and Spoon FM’s Stanton A. Witherspoon, have openly challenged the partnership. They argue that using a government-funded broadcasting facility to host a private gambling operation sets a troubling precedent and may not align with established public institution guidelines.

A major point of contention is whether the appropriate authorities were notified or granted approval before the arrangement was executed. Critics are asking whether the Ministry of Justice was aware of the deal, and whether the Board of Directors of the Liberia Broadcasting System—chaired by the Minister of Information—was involved in approving the use of LBS facilities.

These concerns have fueled suspicions of possible conflict of interest and have intensified calls for clarity from the government. Many members of the public say the absence of official explanations only deepens mistrust surrounding the agreement.

Meanwhile, NLA executives maintain that the new system enhances transparency, modernization, and regulatory oversight in the gaming sector. Blue Star’s management also insists that its platform brings improved security and fairness to lottery operations.

Despite these assurances, the public debate continues to grow, with civil society groups and ordinary citizens urging authorities to disclose the full terms of the partnership, outline revenue-sharing arrangements, and explain the legal basis for using LBS for commercial gaming activities.

The controversy remains active as Liberians await official statements from the NLA, the LBS Board, and the Ministry of Justice.

30/10/2025

Tribute to Sebo Daniels: A Fallen Liberian Journalist

By Bob Woods

I first encountered the late Sebo M. Daniels in the late 1990s during our days in the field of journalism in Liberia, when we both worked for the Monrovia Daily News (MDN) — a newspaper then owned by Triple D, a business venture managed by the late Tugbeh Doe, Tarple Doe, and Richard Divine. We served as senior investigative reporters under the editorship of the late John N. Elliot, one of Liberia’s most prolific writers of his generation.

At MDN, Sebo and I often teamed up to break major stories. We braved the storms to dig up reports that many junior reporters dared not pursue, often landing our stories on the paper’s front page. Together, we extensively covered the military operations of the West African Peacekeeping Force (ECOMOG) during Liberia’s brutal civil conflict — a war that claimed more than 250,000 lives and devastated the nation. Sadly, the Monrovia Daily News was short-lived and eventually disappeared from the newsstand.

The closure of MDN did not end our professional journey. Sebo and I later joined The Daily Times, an independent newspaper owned and operated by the late Spencer D. Browne, another towering figure in Liberian journalism. There, our partnership continued. We went on investigative assignments together, compared notes, and maintained the same passion for truth-telling that characterized our days at MDN.

We were always punctual in the newsroom — conducting interviews, mentoring young reporters, and guiding them on how to rewrite press releases while mastering the Five Ws of journalism.

Following the passing of its publisher, The Daily Times also ceased publication. Yet, Sebo’s contribution to Liberia’s media landscape never went unnoticed. He remained respected and admired by colleagues and friends across the media fraternity, including those at The Inquirer Newspaper, where he had previously served as a reporter.

Until his passing, Sebo Daniels served as Newsroom Editor of the X-Ray Global Newspaper, an independent news outlet jointly published by Liberian journalist Stephen Doito.

Beyond journalism, Sebo was also a sports enthusiast. He once played for Mighty Barrolle Sporting Club and the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) football team.

Rest in perpetual peace, Sebo D, as we fondly called you in the newsroom. Your dedication, courage, and mentorship will forever remain in the hearts of your colleagues and friends — until we meet again.

30/10/2025

A Pact with Success: How Afriland First Bank Is Empowering Liberians Nationwide

True to its inspiring motto, “A Pact with Success,” Afriland First Bank Liberia continues to demonstrate strong leadership in the nation’s financial and development landscape. Through a series of innovative and high-impact initiatives, the bank is deepening financial inclusion, boosting agriculture, and modernizing banking services across Liberia.

Over the years, Afriland has introduced several landmark projects and partnerships that are reshaping how Liberians access and experience financial services.

From what West Africa Voice has gathered, one of the bank’s most remarkable innovations is the “Push & Pull” mobile money service, launched in collaboration with Lonestar Cell MTN. The feature allows customers to seamlessly connect their Afriland accounts to their mobile wallets by dialing *156 #, enabling deposits, withdrawals, and balance checks at any time. This digital advancement eliminates long queues at banking halls and extends financial access well beyond traditional hours.

In a further stride toward digital transformation, Afriland First Bank launched the “SARA” mobile app, a user-friendly digital banking platform that enhances convenience, security, and accessibility. Through SARA, customers can transfer funds within and outside the Afriland network, pay school fees and taxes, purchase airtime, and link their bank accounts to mobile wallets. From what has been reliably learned, this innovation has widened financial inclusion across both urban and rural areas, empowering thousands of Liberians to transact securely and independently.

Agriculture financing remains a cornerstone of Afriland’s long-term development vision. According to information gathered by West Africa Voice, the bank’s partnership with USAID’s Feed the Future / Liberia Agribusiness Development Activity (LADA) has expanded access to credit for smallholder farmers, agro-dealers, and processors. The initiative, which focuses on the rice sector, is driving food security and empowering rural communities.

In collaboration with the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), Afriland is also supporting rural currency exchange services across eight counties — including Nimba, B**g, Lofa, Sinoe, River Gee, Rivercess, Grand Kru, and Gbarpolu. This collaboration enhances the ongoing national currency changeover and promotes rural financial participation through the bank’s Rural Community Finance Institutions (RCFIs) network.

Additionally, Afriland has been instrumental in the National Agricultural Stimulus Initiative, aimed at reviving dormant farms, providing agricultural credit, and boosting local food production. These initiatives have further cemented Afriland’s reputation as a catalyst for inclusive growth and economic transformation in Liberia.

From what West Africa Voice has reliably learned, these strategic efforts have not only reinforced public confidence in Afriland First Bank but have also positioned the institution as a true partner in Liberia’s progress.

Voices of the Customers

Mary Johnson – Small Business Owner, Duala Market

“Afriland First Bank has truly changed the way I manage my business. With the SARA mobile app, I can transfer money and pay my suppliers right from my phone without leaving my shop. Before, I used to spend hours standing in line at the bank, but now everything is faster and safer. Afriland has made banking simple for people like me.”

Emmanuel Toe – Rice Farmer, Lofa County

“Through Afriland’s agriculture loan program, I was able to expand my rice farm and buy better tools. They didn’t just give me a loan — they gave me confidence. Today, my farm supports more workers, and my harvest has doubled. I’m proud to be part of a bank that believes in local farmers and our country’s future.”

Hawa Konneh – Public School Teacher, Paynesville

“I’ve been banking with Afriland for six years, and I can honestly say their customer service is great. They treat every client with respect, and their digital platforms make everything so easy.”

Afriland First Bank’s consistent investment in technology, agriculture, and community-centered initiatives underscores its unwavering commitment to “A Pact with Success.”

From what West Africa Voice has gathered, the bank’s forward-looking approach continues to empower thousands of Liberians bridging the gap between urban and rural communities, and driving national growth from the ground up.

17/09/2025

-Mystery Surrounds Ownership of Pan African Plaza Amid Tax Controversy...


The ownership and management of Monrovia’s Pan African Plaza have become the center of a contentious investigation initiated by X-RayGlobal and affiliated media network.

X-Ray Global News has gathered information that the building, previously under the ownership of The Libyan-Liberian Holding Company (LLHC), is now purportedly managed by Pan African Real Estate Corporation (PAREC), yet uncertainty lingers over its shareholders and tax compliance.

In 2022, the House of Representatives launched a probe triggered by allegations from Representative Richard Nagbe Koon of Montserrado County’s District 11, who claimed that Pan African Plaza failed to fulfill its real estate tax obligations, despite reportedly collecting over US$34 million in rent from the defunct United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).

Despite the House’s efforts, their attempt to launch a comprehensive inquiry into the matter fell through, resulting in widespread speculation and public outcry.

Up to press time, the true ownership details of Pan African Plaza remain shrouded in mystery, intensifying concerns over substantial tax revenue in a country like Liberia, where such funds are vital for national development.

The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has yet to disclose tax and financial activities related to Pan African Plaza’s ownership and shareholders, underscoring the urgent need for transparency and accountability in this complex and contentious issue.

Our sources also indicate that the lack of disclosure raises further questions about regulatory oversight and adherence to legal requirements regarding corporate governance and taxation in Liberia.

In an exclusive report by X-Ray Global Newspaper, three high-ranking government officials spoke anonymously about the issue.

One official expressed concern, stating, “The lack of transparency surrounding Pan African Plaza’s ownership and tax compliance is deeply troubling. We need urgent action to address this for the sake of public trust.”

Another official emphasized the importance of resolving the matter swiftly, stating, “This situation highlights serious governance challenges that must be addressed promptly to uphold accountability and transparency in our country.”

A third official underscored the impact on national development, stating, “The unresolved ownership and tax controversy surrounding Pan African Plaza have significant implications for Liberia’s ability to utilize tax revenue effectively for crucial development initiatives.”

Our source said the situation highlight broader challenges facing Liberia’s governance and regulatory framework, particularly in ensuring transparency and preventing potential misuse of public resources.

Stressing, “Efforts to resolve the ownership dispute and clarify tax obligations must prioritize the interests of the Liberian people and uphold principles of accountability and good governance.”

Investigation into this matter continues, and X-Ray Global News remains committed to reporting updates as they unfold.

17/09/2025

-Mayor Siafa Welcomes 50 Young Interns to MCC Under National Internship Program...

Monrovia – The Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) has welcomed fifty young Liberians under the Government of Liberia’s Young Intern Development Program (YIDP), an initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP).

The interns have been deployed across various departments of the Corporation, including urban governance, sanitation, city planning, youth development, and public administration. The program is designed to provide hands-on professional experience while preparing participants to contribute to national growth and development.

Mayor John-Charuk Siafa described the initiative as a significant step in nurturing the next generation of leaders, policy experts, and public servants. He stressed that the program goes beyond providing professional opportunities, serving as a platform for empowering young people to actively participate in shaping the future of Liberia.

He assured that MCC, as a host institution, will provide mentorship and practical guidance to ensure the interns gain meaningful exposure. “The future of Liberia depends on how well we prepare our youth today,” Mayor Siafa noted, emphasizing the importance of equipping young professionals with the knowledge and skills required for leadership.

The Mayor extended appreciation to the Government of Liberia and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning for recognizing the role of city governance in national development and including MCC in the program.

The Young Intern Development Program is part of ongoing national efforts to strengthen human capital and inspire young people to play an active role in the country’s transformation.

16/09/2025

-Commissioner Rufus’s Leadership Sparks Remarkable Change at Liberia Immigration Service..

X-Ray Global Newspaper has gathered that under the stewardship of Commissioner General Rufus, the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) has undergone a remarkable transformation in a relatively short period.

Sources within the agency and the national security sector confided to this paper that his leadership has not only strengthened border management and national security but also significantly improved the welfare of immigration officers across the country.

Appointed to lead an institution where he once served in uniform, Commissioner General Rufus has demonstrated the value of entrusting leadership to individuals with deep institutional knowledge and a proven commitment to national service. His administration has prioritized operational efficiency, modernization, and officer welfare, setting what sources describe as a “new benchmark” for the agency.

X-Ray Global further learned that as neighboring Côte d’Ivoire prepares for crucial elections next month, Commissioner General Rufus has already rolled out robust security measures at Liberia’s border points. These measures, according to insiders, have bolstered confidence in the country’s ability to safeguard its sovereignty while ensuring strict adherence to immigration protocols.

Beyond border security, sources told X-Ray Global that Commissioner General Rufus has placed the well-being of LIS officers at the center of his agenda. Policies aimed at boosting morale and strengthening support systems have been introduced, recognizing the officers’ indispensable role in protecting Liberia’s national safety.

The modernization drive under his leadership, insiders say, has positioned the LIS for long-term growth. By integrating innovation and international best practices, Commissioner General Rufus has laid the groundwork for a stronger and more adaptive immigration system in the years ahead.

X-Ray Global Newspaper has gathered that his tenure reflects visionary leadership, a steadfast dedication to duty, and an uncompromising commitment to excellence. His transformative impact on the Liberia Immigration Service is expected to leave a lasting legacy — securing borders while elevating the institution to new heights.

16/09/2025

-How Mayor John-Charuk Siafa is Rebranding MCC...

At the heart of this transformation is the Mayor of Monrovia City Council (MCC) John-Charuk Siafa, whose leadership and commitment, along with his dedicated staff, have produced measurable progress in infrastructure development, waste management, public safety, sanitation, hygiene, and human capital development in line with President Joseph Boakai’s national vision — the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

At the bustling Fiamah community, residents recall a time when the stench of uncollected garbage filled the air and children had to skip around piles of waste on their way to school.
Today, there is a different story as the air is cleaner, the streets more passable, and hope is returning to Liberia’s capital city.

The transformation is credited to the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) under the leadership of Mayor John-Charuk Siafa, who has rolled out a series of reforms and infrastructure upgrades aimed at repositioning Monrovia as a clean and green city.

His vision is fully aligned with President Joseph Boakai’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which places emphasis on accountability, reform, sanitation, safety, and transformation.
When Mayor Siafa assumed office, the city’s two major solid waste transfer stations at Fiamah and Stockton Creek were in ruins, and their collapse had left Monrovia drowning in heaps of garbage.
“It was terrible. We thought the city would never recover,” recalls Miama Gray Johnson, a long-time resident of Fiamah. “But today, we see progress. The garbage is moving again, and we can breathe fresh air.”
Accordingly, through what many describe as bold and visionary leadership, the MCC renovated and modernized both facilities, restoring order and cleanliness to parts of the city once overwhelmed by waste.

Paving the Way Forward
Another achievement has been the pavement of a 1.9-kilometer access road to the proposed Cheesmanburg Sanitary Landfill. For years, poor access had stalled progress in developing the landfill, but with the road now complete, officials say Monrovia is closer to finding a long-term solution to its waste management crisis.
“This is about more than just roads and waste,” said Mayor Siafa in a recent community engagement. “It’s about dignity, health, and the image of our capital. Monrovia must reflect the resilience and strength of its people. We are building a city that Liberians, and West Africans, can be proud of.”
For young people, the improvements mean a safer and cleaner future:
“We used to play football near garbage piles, and the smell was always bad,” said James Kollie, a 16-year-old student in Sinkor. “Now, the trucks come regularly, and our community looks better. We want the Mayor to keep this up.”
“What is happening in Monrovia is a reminder that African cities can rise again,” said Elder Peter Kromah, a community leader in Paynesville. “If Monrovia succeeds, it will inspire cities across West Africa to improve too.”
To ensure access to safe, clean, and adequate sanitation facilities while promoting good hygiene practices and an improved quality of life, the Monrovia City Corporation under Mayor Siafa has implemented several measures:
The Installation of 37 trash bins in key parts of the city as well as reactivation of the Saturday cleanup exercise across Monrovia and its environs:
The city’s partnerships with townships and the Borough of New Kru Town, providing tools to support sanitation efforts was key.
One of the milestone accomplishments of the Mayor and his team was the renovation of a toilet facility in the Slipway community, part of a broader effort to end open defecation and promote environmental sustainability. For years, residents had used the Mesurado River for relief, risking the spread of diseases. The renovated toilet facility is expected to reduce infections, lower mortality rates, and build a healthier community with less strain on healthcare systems.
Additionally, the MCC collaborated with WaterAid Liberia to construct toilet facilities in New Kru Town, Battery Factory, B**g Mines Bridge, Wroto Town, Happy Corner, and West Point Communities.
Looking ahead, the Corporation has placed emphasis on youth empowerment and education, recognizing that the future of the city rests with its young people.
“Access to education is a universal human right,” said Mayor Siafa. “We take pride in ensuring that young people in Monrovia, as well as employees of the City Corporation, receive opportunities to equip themselves with the skills needed to lead meaningful lives and contribute to society.”
Among the key initiatives
Provision of international scholarships for 27 Monrovia youths, who are set to pursue studies in China.
Specialized training opportunities for MCC staff in India, Japan, and at the London School of Economics.

16/09/2025

LNTU Pledges Support for Liberian Businesses, Engages Vice President Koung

The president of the Liberia National Truckers Union (LNTU), Mr. Omaru A. Fofana, has disclosed that the Union is experiencing a “new dawn and paradigm shift” in its institutional structures and operations, moving away from a one-man leadership style to a fully structured system that cuts across all spectrums.

According to Mr. Fofana, there had been attempts by some companies to undermine and push Liberians out of business.

In a news conference with a team of journalists recently, he said the Union has addressed these concerns through engagements with the Ministry of Labor.

He further revealed that the Union’s leadership recently met with Vice President Jeremiah Koung, whose intervention led to the recognition and authentication of the Union’s legitimacy.

Mr. Fofana added that the new leadership is also working in close collaboration with the Liberia National Police, the Ministry of Transport (MoT), and the Ministry of Labor.

Meanwhile, the LNTU leadership has embarked on the construction of a training center for union workers at the Freeport of Monrovia.

Mr. Fofana disclosed that about 60 percent of the project has already been completed, with the remaining 40 percent expected to be finished soon.

He emphasized that the Union has now been decentralized across all 15 counties to ensure that Liberian businesses are empowered nationwide and are able to compete at the international level.

Mr. Fofana also disclosed that agreements have already been reached with Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast to facilitate cross-border transportation.

However, he stressed that the Union will require the full cooperation of the government to ensure the smooth ex*****on of these operations.

21/08/2025

Breaking News !
At the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex, dozens of zogos have taken to the streets in protest, demanding that the government crack down on drug dealers.

18/08/2025

-National Road Fund Donates Vehicles to Ministry of Internal Affairs...

The National Road Fund of Liberia (NRF) has officially turned over 28 motorbikes and one pickup vehicle to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) to support the Community-Based Organization (CBO) Program.

According to officials, the donation is intended to strengthen the Ministry’s outreach capacity across Liberia’s counties, enabling CBOs to effectively monitor and report on program activities.

The Community-Based Organization Program is part of a broader effort to decentralize governance and empower citizens in development monitoring, particularly in road maintenance and sustainability.

30/04/2025

-EPS Warns Opposition Figures: VIP Security Will Be Revoked for Advocating Violence...

The Executive Protection Service (EPS) has announced that any individual under its protection who publicly advocates for political insurrection, rebellion, or violent protest risks losing their VIP security privileges with immediate effect.

In a strongly worded statement released today and signed by EPS Director Sam Gaye, the agency described recent comments made by unnamed officials as “calls for chaos and violent disruption of public order.” Although no individuals were specifically named, the message is widely seen as a reaction to increasingly heated rhetoric from some opposition figures critical of the government and promoting mass mobilization.

“The EPS’ services are conditional on adherence to Liberia’s constitutional order,” the release emphasized. “A protectee who actively engages in or incites violence or rebellion against the government forfeits the privilege of EPS protection. Such conduct directly contradicts the EPS' constitutional and operational responsibilities.”

The EPS is mandated to protect the President, Vice President, their immediate families, visiting foreign dignitaries, and other senior officials as directed by the President. Its latest statement appears aimed at drawing a clear line between free speech and incitement to violence.

22/02/2025