The Liberia National Commission on Arms (LiNCA) is set to roll out a groundbreaking Civilian Arm Registration program following an anticipated presidential proclamation via Executive Order.
This initiative, disclosed by LiNCA Chairman James Fromayan, is part of a strategic move to formalize the registration of arms among Liberian citizens in compliance with national laws.
Chairman Fromayan, speaking to Verity News, revealed that comprehensive preparations are underway to secure President Joseph Boakai’s formal authorization for this significant program.
The project, designed to cover the entire country, will involve extensive public engagement and awareness campaigns to ensure citizens understand the registration process and legal requirements.
The Civilian Arms Registration program will be implemented with stringent measures to safeguard against potential risks.
Specific categories of individuals, including those with mental health issues, psychological instability, and those exhibiting extreme temperamental behavior, will be ineligible to register arms.
“LiNCA’s commitment is to ensure that the right individuals are permitted to own arms, prioritizing public safety,” Fromayan stated.
Additionally, Chairman Fromayan confirmed that LiNCA is open to receiving applications for arms importation and sales in Liberia but emphasized that each application would be subjected to thorough scrutiny. “We will carry out due diligence, ensuring that all applicants meet security and legal requirements before any permits are issued,” he told Verity News. He cited a recent example where a company’s application for arms importation was denied after a detailed review, illustrating the agency’s firm approach.
Supported by international allies, including the U.S. Ambassador, LiNCA is committed to upholding stringent controls over arms licensing. “With our partners, we will conduct rigorous checks to ensure all criteria are met before granting permits to any institution or individual to buy or sell arms in Liberia,” Fromayan emphasized.
LiNCA’s role in regulating and monitoring arms use, movement, and trade has roots in Liberia’s troubled history, marked by civil wars from 1989 to 1997 and 1999 to 2003. During these conflicts, the widespread availability of small arms exacerbated violence and prolonged instability. Established to align with international standards for arms control, LiNCA works within legislative frameworks to curb the illegal proliferation of weapons, enforce compliance with treaties like the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms, and promote peace and security.
Since July, under Fromayan’s leadership, LiNCA has made strides in boosting its capacity. He highlighted ongoing office renovations and developing in-house training programs to give employees a deeper understanding of the Commission’s functions. Fromayan also announced plans to attend the launch of Sierra Leone’s national action plan for arms control, a visit aimed at learning from regional counterparts and applying best practices in Liberia.
Fromayan further discussed international engagements to build partnerships and gain insights to enhance LiNCA’s operations. A notable achievement in recent months was the issuance of gun permits to four security personnel upon the request of the U.S. Embassy, underscoring LiNCA’s rigorous permitting process. The chairman urged other embassies in Monrovia to follow suit and apply for arms permits to bolster their security.
To strengthen LiNCA’s oversight, Fromayan mentioned ongoing engagements with concession companies handling explosive arms. These efforts focus on ensuring such companies remain compliant with safety standards and consider the environmental impact of their operations.
As LiNCA moves forward with the Civilians Arm Registration program and other initiatives, the public and stakeholders will closely watch for transformative steps that reinforce arms regulation and contribute to national peace and stability.
