AGP Executive Report

Deportation Deal Watch: Liberia received its first group of 20 “third-country” deportees from the U.S. under a deal to accept up to 1,200 people over a year, with reports that some detainees refused to deplane and were restrained by U.S. agents; Drug Probe: Liberia charged former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor with drug trafficking and money laundering linked to a US$317m cocaine seizure, after she was stopped at Roberts International Airport; Local Governance & Oversight: Health authorities revoked licenses for group homes linked to Sekou Dukuly, Liberia’s National Port Authority executive director, and actions are underway to shut down the facilities; Public Health: The DRC Ebola outbreak is worsening fast, with UN warnings that funds may run dry soon—an urgent reminder for Liberia’s own preparedness; Agriculture Support: Women farmers under LUYCDE appealed for tools and financing to expand vegetable and rice production and make organic fertilizers locally.

Deportations to Liberia: The first 20 third-country deportees arrived at Roberts International Airport under a US-Liberia deal that could transfer up to 1,200 people, but the process sparked confusion after five reportedly refused to leave the aircraft and were restrained by US agents before being sent onward. Former VP Jewel Howard-Taylor: Howard-Taylor was rushed to GIMS after a medical emergency in police custody, as her drug-trafficking and money-laundering case continues amid political pushback and calls for fair treatment. Revenue push: The Liberia Revenue Authority launched a 2025–2029 Corporate Strategic Plan aimed at boosting domestic revenue toward a historic US$1 billion mark, with more automation and taxpayer-focused reforms. Education updates: WAEC released Liberia’s 2026 national exam results (60.37% pass under new graduation criteria), while CAN University transferred to Lofa County University to create an annex expanding access in Lofa. Public finance & governance: The Civil Service Agency warned consultants that weak performance could cost contract renewals, and the Finance Ministry urged tighter UN coordination so development funds match national priorities. Port reforms: Liberia granted autonomy to seaports and inland ports to improve efficiency, as Monrovia’s port performance shows some gains despite persistent logistics and cost challenges. Anti-trafficking crackdown: NAPTIP sealed a suspected illegal maternity facility in Rivers tied to alleged baby trafficking and arrested suspects. Sports & civic life: Civic Champions Barsee and Com Cruz were signed to help reintroduce civics in schools, while Liberia’s drug case coverage also continued with Bucky Raw’s court appearance.

Third-Country Deportations: The U.S. carried out its first deportation flight under a deal for Liberia to accept up to 1,200 non-Liberians, with 20 arrivals landing at Roberts International Airport near Monrovia before being taken away by bus; Liberian officials say the wider group will include people from Africa as well as North and South America and the Caribbean, and that deportees can seek asylum in Liberia. Drug Probe: Liberia has charged former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor with drug trafficking and money laundering linked to a major cocaine case after authorities detained her at Roberts International Airport while she tried to leave; she was later rushed to GIMS Hospital after a reported medical emergency in police custody. Child Trafficking Crackdown: Nigeria’s NAPTIP sealed a suspected illegal maternity facility in Port Harcourt and arrested three people over an alleged ₦13.5 million baby-sale scheme involving a Liberian national resident in Belgium, with investigators now tracing the children’s identities and welfare. Public Health Watch: WHO and Africa CDC reports warn the Ebola outbreak in the DRC is worsening, with a fatality rate above 46% and growing pressure on health services.

Deportation Deal Update: Liberia will receive the first batch of 20 of up to 1,200 “third-country” migrants deported from the U.S. on Thursday, with most coming from Latin America—especially Venezuela and Cuba—after U.S. immigration judges cleared them as facing risks at home; the UN refugee agency and IOM will support services at Roberts International Airport. Drug Probe Escalates: Former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor has been charged with cocaine trafficking, money laundering and related offences after being stopped at the airport and taken into police custody, as authorities say the case links to Liberia’s reported US$317m cocaine seizure and also names three foreign nationals charged in absentia. Political Fallout: Opposition leaders and the governing Unity Party traded accusations over whether the arrest is lawful and professional, while questions grow over due process. Revenue Push: Liberia’s tax authority says it is nearing a historic US$1b domestic revenue milestone. Church-Led Cleanliness Drive: AEL launched a Gospel Solar Lights initiative for 2,000 church leaders, paired with calls for a cleaner, greener Liberia.

Drug Probe Escalates: Liberia has charged former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor with drug trafficking, money laundering and related offenses after authorities stopped her at Roberts International Airport and questioned her at police headquarters, as the government pushes a “no sacred cows” stance following a massive cocaine seizure. Deportation Deal: Liberia agreed to accept up to 1,200 “third-country” deportees from the U.S. over the next year; the first 20 are expected to arrive Thursday and will be treated as “guests,” allowed to leave or apply for asylum, with U.S. support to manage the program. Migration System & Trust: The National Elections Commission validated a new communications strategy aimed at boosting transparency and reducing misinformation ahead of elections. Health & Community Support: A free sanitary pad distribution drive reached rural women in Margibi’s Quela District, pairing supplies with menstrual hygiene education. Regional Context: The DRC Ebola outbreak continues to worsen, with reports saying it has surpassed 2,300 deaths, underscoring the strain on health systems across Central Africa.

US Deportees Deal: Liberia says it will accept up to 1,200 third-country nationals transferred from the United States within a year, with the first 20 expected to arrive Thursday; officials insist they are “guests,” not criminals, and some may seek asylum, but Liberians are raising security and transparency concerns. Cocaine Probe Politics: Former VP Jewel Howard Taylor has been taken into custody as a person of interest in the US$19M cocaine investigation, while lawmakers and security officials trade accusations over accountability and evidence in the widening probe. Courtroom Developments: Judge Gbeneweleh urged courts to reclaim their constitutional role in justice and due process, while Judge Peabody warned against retaliatory leadership that turns personal disputes into institutional harm. Drug Case Fallout: Ex-GSA boss Mary Broh walks free as the court drops Saudi rice charges, and former LDEA chiefs face replacement and suspension amid questions about who is investigating drug enforcement. Local Governance & Services: The Civil Service Agency breaks ground for a southeastern regional HR hub in Zwedru for five counties, and the CSA’s decentralization push aims to cut Monrovia travel for payroll and records. Energy & Cost of Living: LERC rejects LIBENERGY’s tariff reconsideration but delays implementation to Nov. 1, keeping the US$0.22/kWh rate. Health & Education: MOH expands urban vaccination hours in Montserrado, and WFP and Liberia extend school feeding support to 2028. Ebola Watch: DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is reported as the deadliest ever, with deaths now above 2,300.

Third-Country Deportations: Liberia says it will accept up to 1,200 deportees from the U.S. within a year, with the first 20 expected to arrive Thursday, as officials say the arrivals will be screened and may seek asylum in Liberia. Maritime Security in the Gulf: A Liberia-flagged bulk carrier, Minoan Dignity, was hit near the Strait of Hormuz, killing a crew member; the incident comes amid renewed U.S.-Iran tensions and claims about whether the strait is open. Ebola in DR Congo: WHO chief Tedros warns the DRC Ebola outbreak is “far from being under control,” citing insecurity, displacement, and rapid spread that could threaten further countries. Digital ID Push: Liberia’s national biometric ID rollout advances after consultations on a concession with Austria’s OSD, with Parliament next for approval ahead of nationwide enrollment. Justice Department Case: In the U.S., prosecutors seek to revive criminal charges against Kilmar Abrego Garcia after a judge said the case was driven by retaliation. Aid for Health: Catholic Relief Services receives $50 million from the U.S. State Department to support health work in Liberia and other countries.

Drug War & Accountability: Liberia’s police chief Gregory O.W. Coleman fired back at Sen. Amara Konneh over cocaine-crisis claims, saying the senator must be accurate in an active national-security probe, as Konneh argues junior officers are being scapegoated while senior officials escape scrutiny. Domestic Revenue Push: Liberia is on track to cross US$1 billion in domestic revenue for the first time, with the Liberia Revenue Authority citing stronger collections and warning that spending outcomes matter next. Ports & Governance: Scrutiny is rising around National Port Authority boss Sekou Dukuly after an investigation linked his Minnesota group-home businesses to alleged neglect and questioned use of resources. Aviation Safety: LCAA launched a 10-day Safety Management Systems training with EU support to shift Liberia’s aviation safety culture from reactive to predictive. Digital & Youth Skills: Heritage Liberia graduated 20+ children from an AI and digital arts summer camp, while LTA advanced plans to redelegate Liberia’s .lr domain to strengthen digital identity governance. Sports Funding: The National Sports Fund Authority Act was hailed after being signed into law, promising more sustainable financing for athletes. Environment: “Cocoa fever” in Grand Gedeh is wiping out native forests as cacao expands into protected areas.

Ebola Update (DRC): The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has surged to 2,325 deaths and 4,945 confirmed cases, making it the deadliest in the country’s history and the second-deadliest on record globally, with health officials warning the fatality rate has climbed to about 46% as many cases are detected late amid insecurity and weak health systems. Liberia Governance & Ports: President Joseph N. Boakai has signed the Sea and Inland Ports Decentralization and Modernization Act, reshaping control of Liberia’s port network and setting up a major shake-up of the National Port Authority’s role. Anti-Corruption (Rice Case): Thirteen former officials are set to face trial in Montserrado County over alleged misappropriation of Saudi-donated rice for disaster victims. Public Health & Safety (Fake Doctors): A new report highlights how a man allegedly posed as a surgeon and operated without a license, raising fresh questions about enforcement by Liberia’s medical regulator. Poverty Watch: A World Bank estimate says extreme poverty in Liberia rose to 35.8% in 2025, with warnings it could worsen without faster job creation and stronger access to basic services. Community Development: Sie D. Anderson launched education and youth initiatives in Matadi Estate, including a renovated basketball court, a new bus stop, and 500 vacation school scholarships.

Ebola Crisis: DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak has become the deadliest in the country’s history, with deaths rising to 2,325 and confirmed cases reaching 4,945, as the UN warns the virus is spreading fast and killing a person about every 30 minutes. Justice & Accountability: Liberia’s push for a war victims’ justice court faces fresh scrutiny, with calls for a properly funded, independent process that can’t be derailed by politics. Health System Safety: A case involving a woman who died after surgery by a man posing as a surgeon is reigniting anger over weak oversight by the Liberia Medical and Dental Council and the risk Liberians face from fake doctors. Governance Watch: Allegations of unexplained wealth at the Liberia Telecommunications Authority are prompting renewed calls for independent checks on commissioners’ asset declarations. Education Drive: President Boakai is pushing to return 250,000 out-of-school children to classrooms by 2029, with a steering committee meeting focused on county readiness and retention. Local Development: Work is nearing completion on the New Redemption Hospital (about 92%), while Monrovia City Hall’s deteriorating theater section is drawing criticism over maintenance gaps.

Ebola Update (DRC): The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak has killed 2,325 people and reached 4,945 confirmed cases, making it the deadliest in the country’s history, with health officials warning the death toll could keep rising as the outbreak spreads faster than past waves. Liberia Health & Travel Alert: A patient in Israel tested negative for Ebola after returning from the DRC, while health authorities urged anyone returning from the DRC or Uganda to self-isolate and call a hotline if symptoms appear. Drug Crisis & Security (Liberia): President Boakai signed the Port Decentralization Bill amid the country’s biggest drug crisis, as officials push to intensify the fight against drugs and face calls for accountability. Local Justice (Liberia): A Liberian herbalist was jailed for allegedly frightening a woman into paying US$7,200 for “death” spiritual threats. Regional Trade & Roads: Sierra Leone’s Roads Authority opened bidding for a 39-kilometre Sierra Leone–Guinea–Liberia highway to boost cross-border trade. Maritime Safety: A Liberia-flagged bulk carrier collided with an anchored vessel at Chattogram Port; no casualties or pollution were reported. Youth & Media (Liberia): UNICEF relaunched U-Report in Monrovia to give young Liberians a safe channel to influence decisions.

Ebola Alert: Israel’s Health Ministry reported a patient in isolation at Soroka Hospital tested negative for Ebola after returning from the DRC, while officials urged anyone returning from the DRC or Uganda to self-isolate and call the hotline if symptoms appear within 21 days. Maritime Safety: A Liberia-flagged bulk carrier collided with an anchored vessel at Chattogram Port; authorities said there were no casualties, no water ingress, and no environmental pollution. Drug-Crisis Justice: Liberia’s President Boakai removed LDEA OIC Fitzgerald Biago and indefinitely suspended him from the Liberia National Police, with critics demanding clarity on the “ethical concerns” behind the move. Courts & Accountability: A Liberian herbalist was jailed after allegedly frightening a woman into paying US$7,200 for “death-scare” spiritual sacrifices. Youth & Tourism: UNICEF relaunched U-Report in Monrovia to give young Liberians a direct voice in decisions, and Liberia’s tourism authority wrapped a two-day masterclass for nearly 200 creators. Regional Spotlight: International Youth Day events in Monrovia brought together young political and civic leaders to discuss common aspirations.

Oil Spill & Shipping Security: Reuters reports two new slicks in the Gulf of Oman/Strait of Hormuz area, including a major leak tied to the grounded Caroline Bezengi off Oman, while satellite-verified pollution reaches Iran’s Qeshm Island as tensions between Iran and the U.S. continue. Youth & Jobs: Liberia marks International Youth Day with calls to move beyond “leaders of tomorrow” messaging, warning that digital skills and short trainings won’t fix the jobs gap. Tourism Creators: Liberia National Tourism Authority and Wode Maya wrap a two-day masterclass for nearly 200 creators, pushing authentic travel storytelling to boost Liberia’s visibility. Justice & Governance: A Liberian court orders NTAL management to pay its SG US$19,280 in retroactive benefits after a wrongful dismissal ruling. Local Community: Residents help keep a Monrovia-area school open in honor of Zoe Robinson, whose work began as a home-based school for children out of class. Crime & Courts: Police say a herbalist jailed for allegedly frightening a woman into paying US$7,200 for “death” threats.

Strait of Hormuz Oil Spill: A major spill has reached Iran’s Qeshm Island after a tanker attack near Oman, with satellite-linked reports pointing to the Liberian-flagged Minoan Pioneer; experts warn of damage to mangroves, reefs, turtles and fishing as cleanup and blame continue amid rising Gulf tensions. Liberia Youth & Jobs Pressure: International Youth Day events in Monrovia highlighted a widening gap between young people’s skills and limited pathways to jobs and livelihoods, with calls for digital partnerships and real policy follow-through. Drug War Accountability: Economic Freedom Fighters of Liberia launched a hard critique of the Boakai administration over the cocaine crisis and alleged selective enforcement, demanding action against top police leadership. LDEA Leadership Shake-up: President Boakai’s removal and suspension of LDEA OIC Fitzgerald Biago is drawing fresh questions about what “ethical concerns” mean and how vetting worked. Courts & Rights: The National Labour Court ordered NTAL management to pay its SG US$19,280 in retroactive benefits after a wrongful dismissal finding. Politics & Elections: NEC’s proposed jump in candidate registration fees for 2029 is sparking debate over whether democracy is becoming too expensive to access. International Ties: Liberia opened its resident mission in New Delhi, strengthening India-Liberia cooperation. Sports & Culture: UNICEF relaunched U-Report to amplify children’s voices, while Prophet Key regained freedom after a six-month contempt sentence.

Drug Crisis & Accountability: President Boakai’s indefinite suspension and removal of LDEA OIC Fitzgerald Biago is drawing fresh public questions about what “ethical concerns” were found and whether security vetting is failing amid the cocaine scandal. Court & Rights: Prophet Key has regained freedom after a six-month contempt sentence, but release is still being contested over whether Supreme Court conditions were fully met. Food Aid Case: Ex-foreign minister Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah and co-defendants head to trial Monday over alleged diversion of Saudi-donated disaster rice. Youth & Jobs: International Youth Day events in Monrovia spotlight Liberia’s jobs gap and push digital skills and youth participation beyond “training-only” solutions. UN Engagement: UNICEF and UNFPA relaunched U-Report to give Liberian children and adolescents a safe channel to influence decisions, targeting at least 8,000 young people. Governance Debate: NEC’s proposed steep candidate fee hikes for 2029 are sparking a fight over whether democracy should stay affordable. Environment & Health: Ebola in Central Africa is reported at about 4,000 cases with 1,800 deaths, while oil slicks in the Gulf raise new environmental alarms.

India-Liberia Diplomacy: Liberia officially reopened its Embassy in New Delhi after 35 years, with Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti and India’s EAM S. Jaishankar pushing deeper cooperation on shipping security, mining, health, agriculture, water, education and UNSC reforms. Food Security Boost: India pledged 3,000 metric tons of rice plus expanded scholarships and community project support tied to Liberia’s ARREST agenda. Drug Crisis & Rule of Law: As Liberia’s cocaine scandal grows, President Boakai told security forces to stay focused on drugs and border security; meanwhile, the EFFL demanded suspension of Police IG Coleman, and lawyer Gongloe warned Liberia must not become “the next Haiti,” calling for a commission of inquiry. Ports & Maritime Security: Boakai signed the port decentralization bill, but a transition clause delays implementation until 2028, raising fresh questions about safeguards amid the drug crisis. Energy & Environment: LERC licensed LEC’s 20MW solar plant; EPA warned sand mining is worsening coastal erosion. Women in Security: AFL recruitment drives in Grand Gedeh aim to raise women’s representation in the force.