05/03/2026
The response of Hon. Moima Briggs Mensah to former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Statement at the House of Representatives:
After Her Statement: How I Am Thinking and How I Will Act
The recent visit and statement delivered by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of the Republic of Liberia, to the House of Representatives of Liberia was both historic and thought-provoking. As the first elected female President in Africa and a daughter of Liberia who placed our nation on the global stage, her presence in the legislature carries great significance and motivation for women. But her remarks challenged us not only to reflect on the current state of our nation but also to act with courage and responsibility as representatives of the Liberian people.
Below are my reflections and how I intend to respond through legislative and oversight actions.
1. Preservation of Liberian Culture and Citizenship
Former President Sirleaf’s emphasis on the preservation of Liberian culture and the discussion surrounding citizenship for the people of Negro descent is a matter that deserves careful consideration. Liberia was founded on the ideals of freedom and identity for people of African descent, and our national heritage must always be protected.
I appreciate her genuine call for the review of the Constitution of Liberia, but Indeed, a constitution that has guided a nation since 1847 and was later revised in 1986 must periodically be reviewed to respond to modern realities.
However, while openness and inclusion are important, I believe that citizenship considerations should be accompanied by measurable benchmarks. For example, individuals seeking such recognition should demonstrate a tangible commitment to Liberia through meaningful investment in our economy and development sectors. This could include meeting a defined level of investment, contributing to job creation, or supporting national development projects.
In doing so, we will preserve the spirit of Liberia while ensuring that those who seek the privilege of citizenship must also contribute to the growth and sustainability of our nation.
2. Land Use, Judicial Proceedings, and the Role of Public Works and Land Right Authority
Former President Sirleaf’s reservations about land use management and judicial proceedings are factual and demand immediate attention. Across Liberia, we continue to see disputes over land ownership, uncontrolled development, and weak enforcement of zoning regulations.
This raises a critical question: What exactly is the Zoning Departments at the Liberia Land Right Authority and Ministry of Public Works doing?
The responsibilities of the Liberia Land Right Authority and Ministry of Public Works include urban planning, zoning enforcement, and ensuring that development across our cities follows established regulations. Yet the current state of many communities suggests that these responsibilities are not being effectively carried out.
Several important questions must be asked:
*Are zoning regulations being enforced consistently?
* Does the LLA and the Ministry have a functional and active zoning department?
* Are there qualified professionals monitoring urban expansion and building approvals?
* Why do we continue to see structures erected in areas clearly not designated for such development?
* What coordination exists between the Liberia Land Rights Authority and Ministry of Public Works, local authorities, and the judicial system in resolving land disputes?
As part of my constitutional oversight responsibility, I intend to invite the Head of the Liberia Land Authority and Minister of Public Works to appear before plenary to provide a full explanation regarding the effectiveness of their zoning departments and its enforcement mechanisms. If gaps exist, this Legislature must ensure the necessary reforms, resources, and accountability measures are implemented. Liberians deserve a system where land use is orderly, and disputes are minimized, and development follows a clear national plan.
3. The State of Monrovia and the Use of Eminent Domain
I strongly agree with the former President regarding the urgent need to address the condition and future of Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia.
Monrovia is not just ordinary city; it is the political, judicial, and historical heart of our nation. Within its boundaries stand our historic churches, government ministries, legislative and judicial buildings, and monuments that represent Liberia’s heritage.
The government must take decisive action to restore and properly manage the capital. One approach worth serious consideration is the strategic use of eminent domain.
My proposal is straightforward:
1. The government should identified and acquire critical buildings and properties necessary for the redevelopment and preservation of Monrovia.
2. Properties owners are justly compensated according to fair market value.
3. After acquisition and redevelopment, the government may offer the properties back to previous owners or qualified investors.
4. Buyers would be required to make an 80% down payment, while the remaining 20% could be financed through a structured government payment plan.
5. The government would add a 15 to 20% margin, ensuring that the process also generates revenue for national development.
This model would allow the government to reorganize and modernize Monrovia while also creating an economic return for the state.
4. Implementation of Liberalization Policies
Liberia has adopted several economic liberalization policies intended to encourage investment, improve trade, and integrate our economy with regional and global markets. However, policies are only meaningful when they are fully implemented.
We must strengthen our commitment to agreements and frameworks that promote economic growth, including those aligned with regional cooperation within West Africa and international investment partnerships. Proper implementation will help create jobs, strengthen infrastructure, and expand opportunities for Liberian businesses.
Legislators must therefore ensure that the Executive branch is effectively executing these policies and honoring agreements that benefit the Liberian people.
5. Strengthening Political Parties
Political parties are the foundation of a healthy democracy. They should not exist merely during election cycles but must serve as institutions that promote national dialogue, policy development, and civic engagement.
We must encourage political parties in Liberia to become stronger, more transparent, and more policy-driven. When parties focus on national development rather than personal ambitions, our democracy becomes more stable and our governance becomes more effective.
6. Advancing Women’s Leadership
One of the most powerful messages delivered by former President Sirleaf was the call for increased participation of women in the governance system of Liberia.
As a woman serving in the Legislature, I strongly support the proposal to increase women’s representation to at least 40% in leadership and decision-making positions. This is not merely a matter of gender equality, it is a matter of national progress.
Women bring unique perspectives, resilience, and leadership abilities that strengthen governance and policymaking.
Former President Sirleaf made history by becoming Africa’s first elected female president and by placing Liberian women on the global map. Her continued advocacy for women’s representation reminds us that the work is not yet complete.
Today, the number of women in our Legislature remains far below what it should be. This reality should make all of us reflect women and men alike.
Madam former President, thank you for your presence and for your bold and thoughtful remarks before the House of Representatives. Your leadership continues to inspire the female generations of Liberians.
You made history by elevating the women of Liberia onto the world stage, and today you have once again reminded us of our responsibility to do better.
Indeed, we must admit that the current level of women’s representation in our Legislature is disappointing. As women, we must push forward with determination, and as men, our colleagues must also recognize the importance of supporting this progress.
Your voice remains a guiding light for Liberia’s democracy.
As I reflect on your statement, I am thinking deeply about the future of our nation, and I am committed to acting boldly in service to the people of Electoral District #6, B**g County, and the Republic of Liberia.
God bless Mama Liberia.
