By Archie Boan
The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) has intensified efforts to address public concerns surrounding its proposed plan to print additional Liberian dollar banknotes, engaging members of the Legislative Press Pool (LEGISPOOL) in a high-level media briefing on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
The engagement, held at the Bank’s headquarters in Monrovia, brought together senior CBL officials and legislative reporters in what authorities described as a transparency-driven initiative. The move aims to enhance public understanding of key monetary policy decisions amid growing scrutiny.
Speaking during the session, Deputy Governor for Operations, James B. Wilfred, emphasized the importance of proactive communication. He noted that the decision to print additional banknotes is based on economic necessity rather than policy misjudgment.
According to Wilfred, the initiative is intended to replace worn-out and mutilated currency currently in circulation, meet increasing demand for cash transactions nationwide, and support broader monetary policy objectives.
“The goal is to ensure that the Liberian economy continues to function efficiently, with adequate and quality currency in circulation,” he stated, assuring that the process would adhere to established financial safeguards.
The briefing also served as a capacity-building forum, equipping journalists with deeper insights into financial and economic reporting. Officials said this effort is aimed at promoting accuracy, context, and responsible coverage of sensitive monetary issues.
Responding on behalf of LEGISPOOL, its President, Emmanuel Kollie, welcomed the initiative but called for sustained transparency throughout the process.
Kollie described the issue as one that extends beyond technical policy, warning that it directly affects public confidence in the country’s financial system.
“This is not merely about currency; it is about confidence — public confidence in our institutions and in the stewardship of our economy,” he said.
He highlighted key concerns expected to shape public debate, including the rationale for printing additional banknotes, safeguards against inflation, and the potential impact on the purchasing power of ordinary Liberians.
Kollie further stressed the importance of coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities, noting that effective economic management requires alignment between the Central Bank and the Legislature.
He reaffirmed the media’s commitment to delivering accurate, balanced, and fact-based reporting, pledging that journalists would play a critical role in countering misinformation and promoting public awareness.
