Clergyman Warns Land Disputes Threaten Liberia’s Peace and Stability

By Lincoln G. Peters

PO-RIVER, Liberia, July 30, 2026 – Liberian clergyman and author Rev. John D. Monger has warned that the growing wave of land ownership disputes and evictions across the country could undermine national peace, stability, reconciliation, and development if not addressed through the proper implementation of the law.

Speaking in an interview with journalists on Thursday, Rev. Monger called on the Government of Liberia, through the Liberia Land Authority, to strengthen the implementation of the Land Rights Act to help resolve land disputes and prevent future conflict.

He cautioned that unresolved land claims and evictions could deepen divisions within communities if authorities fail to act.

“This new wave of claiming and reclaiming land needs careful attention because it is gradually undermining Liberia’s peace, security, and national reconciliation efforts,” Rev. Monger said.

“We have had enough. We can’t go back to the past. Fifty years of settlement, forty years of settlement, thirty-five years of settlement, and all of a sudden one person comes with an eviction notice to displace hundreds of people. Please look at this.”

Rev. Monger argued that while court decisions must be respected, authorities should carefully consider the broader social consequences of large-scale evictions.

He emphasized that he was not questioning the authority of the courts or defending the illegal occupation of private property but urging a balanced approach that protects both the rule of law and social stability.

“I am not saying the court is wrong, nor am I saying those occupying other people’s land illegally are right. But this situation deserves careful attention because it is gradually undermining the country’s peace and stability,” he said.

The clergyman also called on Liberians to safeguard national unity for future generations, saying today’s actions will shape the country inherited by its children.

According to him, Liberia should be a nation where disagreements are resolved through dialogue and the rule of law rather than violence, and where every citizen feels equally valued regardless of tribe, religion, county, or political affiliation.

“No nation can become prosperous where the law is ignored,” he said.

“The rule of law is the foundation upon which peace, democracy, and development are built. The Constitution must remain supreme. Courts must administer justice impartially. Public officials must be accountable. Citizens must obey lawful authority while exercising their rights responsibly.”

Rev. Monger further urged political leaders, religious institutions, educators, parents, young people, and citizens to work collectively to preserve peace and strengthen national unity.

“The Liberia we desire cannot be built by government alone,” he said. “It requires political leaders who lead with humility, religious leaders who preach peace, educators who shape responsible citizens, parents who teach moral values, young people who reject violence, and every citizen who chooses dialogue over conflict.”