MONROVIA – In a landmark move aimed at bringing governance closer to the people, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has officially transitioned into the Ministry of Local Government. The shift marks a definitive step in the implementation of Liberia’s long-standing decentralization agenda, signaling an end to the highly centralized administrative structure that has defined the nation for decades.
By Francis G. Boayue
The transition was confirmed on Tuesday by the Minister of Local Government, Francis Nyumalin, who emphasized that the change is not merely symbolic but is a statutory requirement.
According to the Minister, the rebranding and restructuring are grounded in the Local Government Act (LGA), which was passed by the Legislature and signed into law by the President in 2018.
Minister Nyumalin explained that the Local Government Act provides the essential legal framework for transferring authority from the central government in Monrovia to local county administrations. This transition is intended to empower local communities, streamline service delivery, and ensure that developmental decisions are made by those most affected by them.
“The objective is clear: we are moving toward a system where the citizens in our various counties have a greater say in how they are governed,” Nyumalin stated.
“This transition allows us to align our operations with the legal mandates of the 2018 Act, ensuring that decentralization is no longer just a policy concept but a lived reality for Liberians, Minister Nyumalin said.”
Addressing concerns regarding the immediate impact on personnel, the Minister clarified that the transition will be phased and orderly. He noted that all current local officials—including superintendents, commissioners, and traditional leaders—will remain in their respective positions for the time being.
Nyumalin further detailed that these officials will continue their duties until the President formally restructures the ministry and makes new appointments or reconfirmations in strict accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act. This grace period is intended to prevent administrative lapses during the handover process.
The Ministry of Local Government is now expected to lead the charge in establishing County Councils, which will serve as the representative bodies for local decision-making and fiscal management.
The post Liberia: MIA Officially Transitions to Ministry of Local Government as Minister Nyumalin Outlines Decentralization Roadmap appeared first on FrontPageAfrica.
Leave a Reply