The House of Representatives has officially cited Liberia’s Minister of Justice to appear before Plenary next Tuesday to clarify the enforcement of the Traffic and Motor Vehicle Law, particularly regarding the authorized use of sirens and access to the so-called “third lane.”
The decision was made on Thursday during the 10th Day Sitting of the 1st Quarter of the House’s 3rd Session.
The action follows a formal request from Sinoe County Electoral District #1 Representative, Hon. Prof. Thomas Romeo Quioh, who urged that the Justice Minister provide a detailed legal interpretation of which public officials are authorized under law to use sirens and access the third lane.
Hon. Quioh’s request was prompted by a communication issued by the Ministry of Justice on February 10, 2026, authorizing law enforcement to impound vehicles that fail to comply with directives on siren use and lane access.
“The gravity of this directive and its potential impact on public officials, state security operations, and ordinary citizens necessitates full clarity from the Ministry,” Hon. Quioh started during Thursday’s sitting.
Plenary members outlined specific areas requiring clarification, including:
The categories of public officials are legally authorized to use sirens;
Whether elected officials fall within these categories;
The legal definition and permissible use of the “third lane”;
The statutory authority permitting law enforcement to impound vehicles in such circumstances; and
Any new policy interpretations introduced beyond existing legislation.
Lawmakers emphasized that, as custodians of statutory enactments, it is the Legislature’s duty to ensure that laws are enforced in accordance with legislative intent and constitutional safeguards.
By citing the Justice Minister, the House seeks to promote transparency, prevent misinterpretation of the law, and reinforce public confidence in the rule of law.
Observers note that the move reflects heightened parliamentary oversight over executive directives, particularly those affecting public mobility and official privileges.
The Ministry of Justice has yet to respond publicly to the summons but is expected to provide detailed explanations to Plenary during the scheduled appearance.
The House’s actions could set an important precedent in clarifying ambiguities in Liberia’s traffic legislation and ensuring that enforcement aligns with statutory mandates.
The inquiry also comes amid growing public debate over the use of sirens and special lanes by officials, with calls for clear guidelines to prevent abuse of privileges.
The scheduled appearance is expected to be closely watched by lawmakers, civil society groups, and the general public, as it could influence future traffic law enforcement practices in Liberia.
