By Elijah D. S. Pyne
Leading lawmakers from Liberia’s southeastern region have influenced the House of Representatives to probe the Ministry of Local Government’s planned municipal reform aiming mass dissolution of cities across the country.
Sinoe County District #3 Representative Alex S. Noah is leading the campaign as he ministry officials have been cited to explain the legal basis for the recent downgrading of several cities across Liberia, with the southeast mainly affected.
In a formal communication to the House, Rep. Noah questioned the ministry’s authority to dissolve the affected cities, arguing that the action may exceed its statutory mandate.
His concerns were echoed by fellow members of the Sinoe Legislative Caucus, including Representatives Samson Wiah and Thomas Romeo Quiah.
Following deliberations on the matter, lawmakers unanimously agreed to invite ministry officials to appear before plenary and provide a detailed explanation of the decision and the legal framework under which it was made.
The ministry recently announced the dissolution of a number of cities, citing their failure to meet the legal requirements necessary to maintain city status. However, several lawmakers contend that the move raises important legal and administrative questions that warrant legislative scrutiny.
Members of the House are seeking clarity on whether the ministry acted within the scope of its authority and in accordance with existing laws governing local governance and municipal administration.
Ministry officials are scheduled to appear before plenary on October 20, 2026, where they are expected to outline the circumstances surrounding the decision and address concerns raised by lawmakers.
The Ministry of Local Government announced plans to reduce Liberia’s officially recognized cities from 141 down to 33, reclassifying 108 cities on grounds they lack basic infrastructure like electricity, running water, schools, health facilities, and a minimum population of 10,000 residents.
