Verity Online News (2025)

15/07/2025

Breaking News 🗞️

Liberian Senate Confirms Scott, Jeke, and Ballout for Key Government Positions

By: Matalay S. Kollie

CAPITOL HILL, MONROVIA — In a significant move for governance in Liberia, the Plenary of the Liberian Senate has unanimously confirmed Cllr. Gloria Musu Scott, Tarnue Jeke, and John Ballout for critical leadership roles within the national government. The Senate's decision, made on July 15, 2025, comes in the wake of appointments made by President Joseph Boakai.

Cllr. Scott has been confirmed as the Board Chair for the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL), while Tarnue Jeke takes on the role of Deputy Minister for Administration in the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry. John Ballout has been confirmed as Liberia's Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This diverse trio brings an impressive array of experience to their respective positions, signaling a commitment to effective governance and international relations.

Notably, Cllr. Scott and Ballout have both held esteemed positions in Liberia's judicial and legislative branches. Cllr. Scott, a renowned lawyer and former Chief Justice of Liberia, received overwhelming support during the confirmation process, with 22 out of 23 Senators voting in her favor—showing a strong consensus for her leadership capabilities, despite one senator opting to abstain. Scott's extensive judicial background is expected to positively influence NOCAL's strategic direction, particularly given the sector's critical role in Liberia's economic development.

Ballout, who also has served as a Senator for Maryland County, is poised to leverage his legislative experience in his new diplomatic role. His confirmation as ambassador is particularly significant given Liberia's ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with Africa's most populous nation, Nigeria. Observers note that Ballout's deep understanding of both domestic and regional issues will be invaluable in fostering diplomatic relations and promoting Liberia's interests abroad.

Tarnue Jeke, the newly appointed Deputy Minister for Administration, brings a wealth of experience in public administration and commerce, making him a key player in the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry. His role will be critical in driving initiatives aimed at enhancing trade and economic growth within Liberia, which remains a priority for the Boakai administration.

The confirmations received praise from various sectors, with many stakeholders expressing confidence that the appointments will lead to improved governance and progress in the respective ministries. As President Boakai continues to assemble his team, these confirmations represent a step towards fulfilling his agenda for national development and international partnership.

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15/07/2025

LINSU speaks to the Media
Reporter Myean D Torgbean

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15/07/2025

Senator Snowe Wants Zoomlion Blocked from Getting Contract in Liberia

By Emmanuel M. Kangar, Jr.

Bomi County Senator, Edwin M. Snowe Jr., has officially communicated with his colleagues on Capitol Hill to block a privately Ghanaian-headquartered waste management company, Zoomlion Ghana Limited, from acquiring a contract in Liberia.

This paper has investigated and established that Zoomlion’s history is riddled by allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and poor performance in terms of service delivery.

In September 2013, the World Bank banned Zoomlion over acts of financial misconduct and bribery according to a World Bank’s letter in possession of this paper.

“The debarment is part of a Negotiated Resolution Agreement (NRA) which acknowledges the company’s cooperation and disciplinary measures against staff involved in the misconduct,” the World Bank said

More details to follow. Read more via our website https://verityonlinenews.com/

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15/07/2025

STAND Chairman Mulbah K. Morlu Jr. Speaks to the Media

Reporter Myean D Torgbean

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15/07/2025

Breaking News 🗞️

Pres. Boakai Fires Deputy Minister of Justice for Administration and Public Safety

By Myean D Torgbean

The President of Liberia, H.E. Joseph Nyumah Boakai, has dismissed with immediate effect the Deputy Minister for Administration and Public Safety of the Ministry of Justice, Cllr. Massa Jallabah.

Cllr. Jallabah was appointed on March 19, 2024. It is not yet clear what led to her dismissal as this paper continues to investigate. In a quick shift to replace the dismissed Minister, President Boakai has appointed the Deputy Minister for Codification of the Ministry of Justice, Cllr. Cora Konuwa.

In a separate move, the President also nominated Peter Solo, former Superintendent of Grand Gedeh County, as the new head of the National Lottery Authority.

More details to follow on this development.

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15/07/2025

ECOWAS Court Dismisses Enforced Disappearance Case Against Liberia

By G. Watson Richards
Judicial Reporter, Verity News

The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has dismissed a case filed against the Government of Liberia alleging enforced disappearance, citing the applicant’s lack of legal standing.
However, the court reaffirmed its jurisdiction to hear human rights cases under Article 9(4) of the ECOWAS Court Protocol, which authorizes it to adjudicate such matters involving member states.

In its ruling, the court rejected a jurisdictional objection raised by the Republic of Guinea and confirmed its authority to proceed with human rights-related complaints across the region.
The suit was brought by Ibrahim Khalil Cherif, a dual national of Liberia and Guinea, who alleged that he was subjected to enforced disappearance and other serious human rights violations.

Cherif claimed that both the Liberian and Guinean governments were involved in his arrest and mistreatment.Cherif became the center of controversy in late 2024 when he was apprehended by Liberian security forces.

He was accused of plotting to destabilize Guinea’s military junta by allegedly recruiting mercenaries to support a counter-coup in favor of exiled former President Alpha Condé, targeting the leadership of Colonel Mamady Doumbouya.

Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism’s (MICAT) regular press briefing on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, Deputy Information Minister for Public Affairs, Daniel O. Sando, welcomed the court’s ruling.

“The Government of Liberia welcomes and respects the decision of the ECOWAS Court,” Deputy Minister Sando stated. “This outcome vindicates Liberia and affirms the importance of due process when bringing forward such serious allegations.”

Sando also admonished the media to report responsibly and verify facts before publication.
He noted that there had been misleading reports surrounding the case, which he said misinformed the public.

According to Sando, the Government under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai remains committed to the rule of law and the protection of human rights.

He added that the ECOWAS Court’s decision underscores the administration’s strong adherence to legal and democratic principles.

“We respect the ECOWAS Court’s judgment and remain committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law,” Sando emphasized. “This ruling demonstrates the strength of Liberia’s legal institutions and our dedication to justice.”

He concluded by reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to regional cooperation and its continued collaboration with ECOWAS institutions in promoting peace, stability, and justice across West Africa.

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15/07/2025

Pres. Boakai Nominates Honnah, Cassell-Bush, and Fofana as LTA Commissioners Pending Senate Confirmation

By Preston Slami Panyonnoh [email protected]

Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has formally nominated three prominent Liberians to serve as Commissioners of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA). The nominees; Patrick Honnah, Angela Cassell-Bush, and Ben Fofana, were named during the Senate’s session on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, and are now poised to face confirmation hearings in the coming days.

The trio had previously served in acting capacities, where their roles, though instrumental, were limited in authority. As acting commissioners, they were restricted from making high-level policy decisions, signing off on major regulatory actions, or concluding binding agreements on behalf of the LTA. These limitations created operational bottlenecks and weakened the LTA’s ability to regulate Liberia’s growing telecommunications sector effectively.

Their official confirmation will not only legitimize their appointments but also restore full institutional authority to the LTA’s leadership. This move is seen by many as a critical step in strengthening the telecommunications governance landscape in Liberia.

The LTA plays a central role in the oversight, regulation, and promotion of telecommunications services in Liberia. With the sector evolving rapidly, there is increasing demand for visionary leadership capable of ensuring transparency, expanding access, promoting fair competition, and overseeing licensing and spectrum management.

Patrick Honnah, a respected journalist and media executive, brings decades of experience in communication and public affairs. Angela Cassell-Bush, a seasoned administrator and former Minister of Gender, has been lauded for her leadership acumen and public service record. Ben Fofana, a telecommunications policy expert, is widely recognized for his work in digital policy and ICT strategy across West Africa.

Stakeholders within the telecommunications industry have expressed cautious optimism over the nominations. Many see this as a much-needed step toward restoring regulatory independence and stability to the LTA, which has faced governance gaps and leadership uncertainties in recent years.

"The confirmation of these commissioners is not just procedural; it’s about giving the LTA the legal and executive teeth it needs to function effectively," said a senior staffer within the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, who asked not to be named.

With confirmation, the new commissioners will be empowered to spearhead critical reforms, including revisiting outdated licensing frameworks, enforcing compliance among telecom operators, enhancing consumer protection measures, and coordinating Liberia’s transition to 5G and improved broadband infrastructure.

The Liberian Senate is expected to begin vetting the nominees within the week. If confirmed, Honnah, Cassell-Bush, and Fofana will assume full statutory authority and serve for a fixed term as outlined under the Telecommunications Act.

As Liberia deepens its digital agenda, the leadership of the LTA will remain central to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that telecommunications remains a tool for national development, transparency, and economic empowerment.

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15/07/2025

AREPT Issues Stern Warning to Suspected Fugitives: “Flight Will Not Shield You From Justice”

By G. Watson Richards

The Asset Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT) has issued a strong public warning following reports that several individuals under active investigation for alleged corruption and asset misappropriation may be attempting to leave the country.

In a statement released Monday, July 14, 2025, AREPT cautioned that fleeing Liberia will not exempt any suspect from prosecution, and warned that such actions could trigger international legal mechanisms designed to return fugitives to face justice at home.

“Fleeing the country will not protect anyone from investigation or prosecution,” said Joseph Daniels, Public Relations Officer for AREPT.
According to Daniels, such actions only deepen public suspicion and reinforces the Taskforce determination to recover stolen asserts.

“Such actions only deepen public suspicion and reinforce Liberia’s determination to recover stolen assets and uphold the rule of law,” he added.

The Taskforce emphasized that it has the full backing of international partners and stands ready to activate diplomatic and legal processes, including extradition procedures and regional security cooperation.

AREPT confirmed that it will engage the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ECOWAS, the African Union, INTERPOL, and global asset recovery networks to pursue suspects who attempt to evade justice.

“Our mandate is clear,” Daniels continued. “We will pursue every legal channel available. Attempts to obstruct justice through flight will be met with lawful, coordinated, and resolute action.”

While AREPT did not name individuals in the current warning, sources familiar with the investigations have noted growing concern within the Liberian government over potential attempts by high-profile persons of interest to relocate abroad amid ongoing probes.

The Taskforce urged all persons under investigation to cooperate fully, stressing that such cooperation is not a choice but a legal obligation.

“Cooperation with ongoing investigations is a legal duty, not an option,” said the statement. “No one is above the law, and no attempt to flee will ultimately succeed.”

AREPT reaffirmed its commitment to due process and a non-political approach to asset recovery and accountability.

The taskforce reiterated that all efforts are rooted in the broader goal of restoring public trust and strengthening Liberia’s legal institutions.

The warning comes amid heightened national and international interest in Liberia’s anti-corruption efforts, with government institutions and civil society pushing for transparency and the recovery of state resources.

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15/07/2025

The largest student-based political party in Liberia, the Student Unification Party (SUP), Condemns July 17 Protest and its Organizers; Terms it as a CDC Protest that lacks independence.

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15/07/2025

The Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs & Tourism Bi-Weekly Regular Press Briefing

Today Guest: LERC Managing Director, Mr. Augustus V. Goanue

Reported by G. Watson Richards

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15/07/2025

Ahead of a major protest organized by STAND on July 17, The Joint Security of Liberia (LNP, LDEA, LIS, etc.) carried out normal drill exercises in Monrovia.

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15/07/2025

Breaking News 🗞️

PSU Chief of Operations, Kettor S. Bundor, Allegedly Beaten By AFL Personnel at Daughter’s Birthday Party

July 15,2025

By D Abraham Cooper
Grand Gedeh Correspondent, Verity News

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