Minister of Local Government Francis Sakila Nyumalin has apologized to the 55th House of Representatives over controversial claims that major cities across Liberia were dissolved without legislative consent, clarifying that assessments of the affected cities remain ongoing.
Appearing before the House plenary on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, alongside Deputy Minister for Urban Affairs Fatima Bintu Sirleaf, Minister Nyumalin said a comprehensive report on the status of the cities would be submitted to the Legislature upon completion of the assessment process.
His clarification appears to reverse earlier assertions surrounding the restructuring of cities nationwide, with the minister indicating that the process remains subject to further assessment and legislative review.
The appearance followed growing concerns among lawmakers over the reported dissolution of several cities across Liberia, particularly in counties where the restructuring reportedly resulted in significant reductions in the number of recognized cities.
Sinoe County District #3 Representative Alex S. Noah had formally requested the appearance of Minister Nyumalin and Deputy Minister Sirleaf before the House to explain the circumstances surrounding the decision.
Representative Noah’s request followed reports that Sinoe County, which previously had 44 cities, retained only Greenville under the restructuring exercise.
Other counties were also reportedly affected. Grand Kru County retained only one city out of 33, while River Gee County maintained two out of 10. Maryland County retained Harper and Pleebo out of 17 cities, and Grand Cape Mount County retained only Robertsport.
Meanwhile, Nimba County reportedly retained all six of its cities, including Sanniquellie, Karnplay, Gompa, Saclepea, Tappita, and Bahn.
The reported changes sparked concerns over the authority used to restructure or dissolve cities and whether the process complied with existing laws governing local government administration.
During Tuesday’s appearance, Nyumalin assured lawmakers that the ongoing assessments would inform a comprehensive report to be submitted to the Legislature for consideration and further action.
The minister’s statement leaves the implementation and legal status of the proposed changes subject to clarification through the assessment and legislative review process.
The House is expected to consider the matter further as lawmakers seek answers on the decisions affecting local government structures across the country.
