Monrovia – The Liberia National Commission on Arms (LiNCA) has lauded President Joseph Nyumah Boakai for signing Executive Order (EO) 141, which mandates the registration of firearms in the Republic of Liberia. Signed at the Executive Mansion, this landmark decision represents a major step in the nation’s ongoing efforts to regulate firearms ownership and prevent the illegal proliferation of small arms.
Under the new Executive Order, all firearms, including military-styled weapons and single-barrel guns, must be registered with the relevant authorities. This move aligns Liberia with international standards and regional protocols aimed at controlling arms, particularly under the frameworks of the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
Honorable James M. Fromayan, Chairman of LiNCA, praised President Boakai’s leadership, calling the move timely and essential for strengthening national security and public safety. “This is a crucial step that will minimize the risks associated with unregulated firearms,” Fromayan said. “It highlights Liberia’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by small arms and light weapons proliferation both regionally and globally.”
LiNCA has expressed its support for the new law and announced its intention to collaborate closely with the Liberia National Police (LNP) to oversee the mandatory registration process. The Commission will be responsible for issuing permits and licenses to firearm owners under the Amended Firearms and Ammunition Control Act of 2022, which serves as the legal framework for civilian firearms regulation.
While the registration of military-style firearms is a central aspect of the Order, civilian firearms, including single-barrel guns used by hunters, will also be included. LiNCA emphasized the importance of compliance by individuals and businesses that rely on firearms, to ensure that all weapons are legally documented.
The Commission is working on an outreach program to guide the public through the registration process and to ensure it is transparent and accessible. The registration process is expected to begin soon, and LiNCA urges all Liberians to take part and ensure their firearms are legally registered.
