As Liberia embarks on a new chapter in its arms control efforts, the Chairman of the Liberia National Commission on Arms (LiNCA), James M. Fromayan, has promised to implement Executive Order (EO) 141 with utmost diligence. The order mandates the registration of all firearms in the country, a critical measure in curbing the proliferation of unregulated arms, but it is not without its challenges and concerns.
Fromayan, fully aware of the stakes in Liberia’s fragile peace and stability, assured that the registration process would be conducted cautiously, taking into account the potential implications of such a significant policy change. He emphasized that firearms registration is a vital step towards effective arms control in Liberia, yet acknowledged the delicate nature of implementing such a regulation in a nation where weapons have often been associated with insecurity.
While Fromayan’s assurances reflect his commitment to carrying out the task efficiently, the broader public and international community remain watchful. There are lingering concerns about the adequacy of the Commission’s ability to handle such an extensive process. Critics are questioning whether LiNCA has the capacity to manage the registration of all firearms in the country, especially given the lack of a clear blueprint on how the initiative will be enforced at the community level.
LiNCA, in conjunction with the Liberia National Police (LNP), will be tasked with implementing EO 141, which requires the registration of military-style firearms, single-barrel guns, and other civilian weapons. While this action aligns Liberia with international arms control standards, it also raises questions about the thoroughness of the registration process, particularly regarding the large number of informal weapons, such as hunting rifles, which may be difficult to track.
Despite the ambitious nature of the EO, Fromayan’s remarks to the press praised President Joseph Nyumah Boakai for signing the executive order, describing it as a step towards strengthening national security and public safety. He referred to the order as an important move to mitigate the risks associated with unregulated firearms, which have fueled regional violence in the past. However, while the Executive Order reflects Liberia’s commitment to global arms control treaties, some experts remain skeptical about the country’s ability to follow through effectively.
LiNCA has promised to work closely with the LNP to carry out the registration process, and the Commission has outlined its role in issuing permits and licenses under the Amended Firearms and Ammunition Control Act of 2022.
