Lofa County District #3 Representative, Momo Siaffa Kpoto, has introduced a bill aimed at amending Liberia’s legal framework to criminalize same-sex practices.
The proposed legislation, titled “An Act to Amend the New Penal Code Chapter 14, Sub-Chapter D and Add a New Section 14.80 Making Same-Sex Sexual Practices a Criminal Offense,” was formally presented during the 14th Day Sitting of the 1st Quarter of the 2nd Session of the House of Representatives on March 11, 2025.
In his submission, Representative Kpoto referenced Article 5 of the 1986 Constitution, which underscores the protection of Liberia’s cultural values and traditions. He argued that the bill is crucial for preserving these cultural values in the face of modern societal changes.
“After a thorough analysis of our culture and tradition in this contemporary society, I have deemed it most expedient to introduce this bill for your honorable consideration,” Kpoto stated. “This bill is intended to protect our inherited cultural values, tradition, and belief.”
Kpoto expressed confidence that the proposed law would strengthen the trust and confidence that Liberians have placed in their lawmakers. He urged his colleagues to support the bill, believing it would reinforce the faith of their constituents. “In view of the foregoing, colleagues, I am keenly anticipating your indulgence for the passage of this bill, which will reinforce the trust and confidence reposed in us by our people,” he said.
The bill, which seeks to add a new section to the Penal Code criminalizing same-sex practices, will now undergo further examination and debate within the legislature. Representative Kpoto, who serves as the Chairman of the Committee on Transport, Co-chairman of Internal Affairs, and is a member of the State Enterprises Committee, remains hopeful that the bill will gain the support of his fellow lawmakers.
