The Liberian Senate has repealed the Ministry of Internal Affairs, establishing the Ministry of Local Government, which aims to enhance local governance and socio-economic development. This reform will ensure job security for current employees during the transition and align with existing local governance laws. The Ministry will oversee local development programs, promote good governance, and facilitate peace and reconciliation across the nation.
On February 7, 2025, the Liberian Senate completed the repeal of Chapter 25 of the Ministry of Internal Affairs as per the Executive Law of 1972, introducing a new Chapter 25 called the Ministry of Local Government. This decision came from a report by the Joint Committee on Internal Affairs, Governance & Reconciliation, and Judiciary, Human Rights, Claims & Petitions, which recommended changes to the Act. This renaming signifies an operational overhaul to support local governance and frameworks established by the 2018 Local Government Act.
The reform ensures job security for existing employees during the transition while allowing current Ministers and Deputy Ministers to continue their roles within the new Ministry pending presidential nominations. This amendment has been in discussion since 2018, with various delays affecting its progress. The Ministry of Local Government will oversee local governments, focusing on socio-economic development, community empowerment, and the provision of essential social services to promote governance and justice at local levels.
Additionally, the Ministry will play a crucial role in facilitating peacebuilding, fostering reconciliation, and enhancing national unification to sustain peace and stability in Liberia. The implications of these changes are significant, as they aim to improve local governance and ensure that citizens have access to justice and government resources effectively. The new structure is intended to foster inclusivity and participation within local governance frameworks.
The establishment of the Ministry of Local Government arises from ongoing efforts to enhance local governance and integrated socio-economic development in Liberia. The reforms align with the 2018 Local Government Act and the Revenue Sharing Law, aiming to create a robust administrative framework for supporting local communities. The legislative changes reflect the government’s commitment to empowering local governance structures and ensuring transparency and accountability in public administration.
In conclusion, the Senate’s repeal of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the formation of the Ministry of Local Government represents a pivotal shift towards strengthening local governance in Liberia. The new Ministry is tasked with overseeing local development initiatives, enhancing social service delivery, and promoting reconciliation. By safeguarding the jobs of current employees during this transition and ensuring a fair process for new appointments, the government aims to facilitate a stable and effective administrative framework essential for the nation’s growth and stability.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
