By Jessica Cox
Monrovia – The Liberian government has clarified that it has not received any official communication from the United States regarding a mass deportation of Liberian citizens. This statement was made by the Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Jerelomiah Piah, during a regular press briefing held earlier this week.
Minister Piah acknowledged that four Liberians were deported prior to the new U.S. administration’s policy changes, emphasizing that these cases are unrelated to the recent regulatory shifts. He noted that three of these individuals are expected to return to Liberia this week.
In response to the growing concerns, the Liberian government has initiated proactive measures. President Joseph Boakai, in consultation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has directed officials to engage with U.S. authorities at both state and federal levels. Additionally, the Minister of Internal Affairs has established a counterpart dialogue with the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security to explore alternatives to deportation.
“Backdoor diplomacy is ongoing,” Minister Piah stated. “At home, we remain engaged with the U.S. Ambassador, and we appreciate his openness in facilitating this process.”
To address the anxieties of Liberians living in the United States, the Liberian Embassy in Washington, D.C., organized a virtual meeting with diaspora associations. Over 100 participants joined the call, which was monitored by Liberian Ambassador Dr. Isaac D. Content and Foreign Affairs Minister Sara Nyantee. Key recommendations from the meeting included:
1. **Establishment of a Hotline**: The embassy will launch a dedicated hotline for Liberians to seek assistance, with a volunteer from the diaspora providing technical support.
2. **Unified Diaspora Action**: Liberian associations in the U.S. have pledged to work collaboratively and avoid actions that could undermine the process.
3. **Engagement of Influential Liberians**: Liberians holding leadership positions in the U.S. government and other significant roles are encouraged to coordinate efforts to support their compatriots.
In preparation for potential mass deportations, an Interagency Task Force has been activated. Chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the task force includes representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Liberia Immigration Service, Liberia National Police, and the Ministry of Finance. The group convened in February to strategize and ensure preparedness.
The rumors of mass deportations have sparked widespread concern among Liberians both at home and abroad. Many Liberians rely on financial support from family and friends in the U.S., and the potential deportation of their sponsors has raised fears about their economic stability. Liberia’s current economic situation remains fragile, adding to the uncertainty.
While some Liberians have expressed relief or even celebration at the prospect of their fellow citizens returning home, others have called for empathy and solidarity. “Should we celebrate the downfall of our own, or should we empathize with them?” Minister Piah reflected. “Remember, the fall of the dry leaf is a warning to the younger ones.”
