Liberia President signs port decentralization bill amid drug crisis

President Joseph Boakai has signed legislation to dismantle the National Port Authority’s monopoly, decentralizing control of Liberia’s ports to autonomous boards in Monrovia, Buchanan, Greenville, and Harper. The law establishes the Independent Seaport and Inland Ports Regulatory Authority to oversee operations. This decision follows two previous presidential vetoes based on concerns regarding maritime security and regulatory overlaps.

The legislative change occurs amid a significant narcotics crisis in Liberia. Authorities are currently investigating a sophisticated, well-funded drug trafficking network that has operated for approximately six years. Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah defended the ongoing crackdown, stating the investigation is evidence-driven and involves international partners from the United States, the Netherlands, Morocco, and neighboring West African nations.

Concerns remain regarding whether the new decentralized port system will provide sufficient safeguards against traffickers. The country is currently managing a major cocaine scandal involving a $317 million seizure and legal issues within the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA).