By Archie Boan
The Liberian Senate has launched a formal inquiry into escalating land disputes and reported demolitions across the country, amid mounting public concern over property rights and community stability.
The action follows a communication from Jonathan Boycharles Sogbie of River Gee County to Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, warning of what he described as an increasing wave of land conflicts. Senator Sogbie cited reports of land acquisition and reacquisition processes allegedly carried out without the proper involvement of the Liberia Land Authority (LLA), raising questions about adherence to established land administration procedures.
According to the River Gee lawmaker, rising tensions in affected communities could pose serious risks to peace and national stability if not urgently addressed. He urged the Senate to invite relevant authorities to provide clarity and propose corrective measures aimed at restoring public confidence in Liberia’s land governance system.
During plenary deliberations, Saah Joseph of Montserrado County outlined concerns from his constituency. He pointed to ongoing land claims in communities including New Georgia Junction, Toepoe Village, and the Stephen Tolbert Estate, where residents have reportedly faced uncertainty and, in some cases, demolition of their homes.
Senator Joseph questioned the legitimacy of multiple claims allegedly originating from a single property deed and called for stronger institutional oversight to prevent what he described as confusion and exploitation within the land sector.
He also expressed dissatisfaction with the response of the Liberia National Police in handling certain incidents, stressing the need for law enforcement authorities to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law in communities affected by disputes.
In response to the concerns raised, plenary voted to summon the Liberia Land Authority, the Ministry of Justice, the Liberia National Police, the Ministry of Local Government, and the Ministry of Mines and Energy to appear before the Senate Committee of the Whole next Thursday.
The institutions are expected to address questions surrounding land ownership disputes, demolition activities, and the enforcement of land governance regulations, as lawmakers seek accountability and solutions to prevent further displacement and unrest.
