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Washington, DC. February 3, 2025 The Dean of the Liberian Cabinet and Foreign Minister of Liberia, Her Excellency Sara Beysolow-Nyanti, is urging the media and the public to refrain from publishing the names of Liberians allegedly facing deportation by the US government. In an urgent digital meeting held via Zoom with leaders of various Liberian organizations in the United States, Minister Nyanti emphasized that neither the Foreign Ministry nor the Embassy of Liberia in Washington, D.C., has received any official communication regarding the circulating lists.
Minister Nyanti expressed the deep concern of the Government of Liberia and assured participants that the government is taking these reports seriously. She noted that they are actively engaged in dialogue with US Embassy officials in Monrovia to address the situation and that no official notice of mass deportations has been issued by the US. “Stay calm,” she urged, “as we continue to engage for an amicable resolution.”
Additionally, Minister Nyanti revealed that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. is concerned about the reports of deportation and is preparing to write a letter to US President Trump seeking clarifications. She also announced her plans to travel to the United States by late February to meet with her counterpart, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to discuss the matter in more detail. She emphasized the importance of a calm and diplomatic approach to the situation.
The Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA), represented by its Chairman Mohammed Kieta, expressed gratitude to the Government of Liberia for its proactive measures. Kieta announced that ULAA has declared an emergency and reactivated its Immigration Unit under Mr. Michael Wreh to develop a comprehensive strategy to support those affected.
The ULAA leader pledged to work closely with the Liberian government and other advocacy groups in the US to address this pressing issue and to uphold the dignity of every Liberian abroad. During the meeting, it was suggested that a committee be formed to engage US officials, Amnesty International, and the Red Cross to ensure a humane process. Participants also emphasized the need for Liberian embassies abroad to provide timely legal assistance to those facing challenges.
Ms. Lucy Kear, a Liberian community leader from the Maryland area, volunteered to work closely with the Embassy of Liberia in D.C. to establish a 24-hour hotline aimed at addressing the concerns of Liberians.
The new Ambassador accredited to the United States, with concurrent responsibilities for Canada and Mexico, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh, chaired this critical meeting. In attendance were Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cllr.. Deweh Gray, Deputy Minister for Administration Hon. Gabriel Salee, Charge d’Affaires Ad Interim from the Embassy of Liberia in Washington, Isaac Yeah, and Minister Counsellor for Press and Public Affairs Al-Jerome Anastas Chede Sr. Over a hundred concerned Liberians participated, seeking reassurance and clarity about the efforts being made by their government to protect those facing deportation.
This narrative of tension, diplomacy, and community effort highlights the resolve of the Government of Liberia, ULAA, and the Liberian Diaspora. Their united stance signifies the beginning of a campaign for justice, emphasizing diplomatic solutions and reinforcing the power of community solidarity in challenging times.
Al-Jerome Anastas Chede Sr.
Minister Counselor
Press and Public Affairs
Washington DC
Press@liberianembassyus.org
Aljay312000@yahoo.com
+1612-239-8051
+1202-723-0437 ext:119
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