By Jamesetta D Williams
Defending the Liberian government’s anti-drug combat which largely resulted into two high-profile seizures of cocaine at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) and recently in the VOA Community, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti took swipe at those regurgitating lies and misinformation, all of which she said has the potential to undermine Liberia’s international standing.
“What is new is the extent to which these lies undermine the fight against drug trafficking in Liberia, undermine a highly credible investigation, and undermine Liberia’s position in the world,” she said.
She said she addressing recent criticisms and allegations because they have gone beyond personal attacks and now threaten Liberia’s international image, diplomatic relationships, and the credibility of the ongoing drug investigation.
The foreign minister hailed President Joseph Nyuma Boakai government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring Liberia does not become a narco-state.
At Ministry of Information Thursday press briefing, Minister Nyanti disclosed how the government’s approach to combating illicit drugs has been guided by a structured, principled, and strategic plan rather than public debates or political narratives.
“The objective is clear: Liberia will not become a narco state,” Minister Nyanti stated.
“President Boakai has been keen and consistent; he has made it clear to us at cabinet level and in bilateral engagements that this administration will be guided by strategy, facts, and results.”
She said President Boakai has consistently maintained that his administration will not govern through social media, propaganda, or public pressure, but through institutions, evidence, and responsible decision-making.
Minister Nyanti highlighted Liberia’s current role on the global stage, including its leadership as coordinator of the African Three (A3) at the United Nations Security Council and its role among the elected members of the Security Council.
She said Liberia’s position has increased the country’s influence in international affairs, with foreign governments engaging Monrovia on issues affecting global peace and security.
The Foreign Minister disclosed that Liberia has been actively engaging international partners, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Morocco, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Rwanda, and other countries, to strengthen cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking.
She revealed that following the seizure of the suspected US$317.68 million cocaine shipment, she personally engaged senior officials in the United States Government, including the National Security Council and other relevant authorities, which helped facilitate additional support from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
According to her, the support provided by international partners is intended to strengthen Liberia’s investigation and security capacity, not to replace Liberia’s justice system.
“This is not for us to take people to America to be prosecuted. Anybody violating our laws here will be prosecuted here in Liberia,” she emphasized.
Minister Nyanti also addressed allegations involving diplomatic channels and the possible misuse of diplomatic privileges in drug trafficking.
She clarified that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not handle or inspect diplomatic shipments, explaining that diplomatic cargo privileges are governed under the Vienna Convention.
According to her, foreign embassies make requests through the Chief of Protocol, where their diplomatic status and eligibility are verified, after which the shipment arrangements are handled directly by the respective diplomatic missions.
She challenged anyone making allegations about diplomatic involvement in drug trafficking to provide specific evidence.
“If you are saying a diplomatic pouch was used to carry drugs, tell us which government and which embassy you are accusing. Give us the information so that we can act on it,” Nyanti stated.
The Foreign Minister also dismissed claims that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is part of the problem, insisting that the ministry is actively contributing to the national security response.
She said the ministry, as a member of Liberia’s National Security Council, has been working behind the scenes to secure international cooperation and intelligence support.
Nyanti further cautioned against political attacks and public accusations without evidence, saying such actions distract from the collective responsibility required to address the drug challenge.
“Political targeting and deflection will not solve this problem. We need to see this as all of us together being part of the solution,” she said.
She praised members of the Joint Security, including the Liberia National Police, the Attorney General, and other security officials, for their cooperation in the investigation.
The Foreign Minister said Liberia’s current efforts demonstrate a new direction for the country, emphasizing that the government is working to build a stronger security system capable of addressing emerging threats.
She called on citizens and the media to approach the issue responsibly, warning that spreading unverified claims could damage Liberia’s reputation and weaken partnerships with countries supporting the fight against narcotics.
“This Liberia doesn’t deserve political games and propaganda. This new Liberia deserves that we work together to solve the problem,” she concluded.
“Liberia is leading the voice of Africa this month,” she said. “We are driving conversations on peace and security.
Last night alone, several foreign ministers called my office seeking Liberia’s position. This is a major responsibility for our country.”
The Foreign Minister disclosed that Liberia has served as a diplomatic bridge in West Africa, citing her recent missions to Sudan and South Sudan.
She noted that following her meeting with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan in Khartoum, the African Union and subsequently the United Nations returned operations to the capital.
“These are the big things Liberia is doing that we don’t always talk about due to the sensitive nature of global security,” Minister Nyanti said.
“We are meeting world leaders. We are moving into territories that are dangerous, because Liberia’s voice now matters.”
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