By: Julius Konton
Senator Momo Tarnukollie Cyrus, Chair of the Senate Committee on Defense, Intelligence, Security, and Veteran Affairs, delivered a stark and urgent address at the opening of the 3rd and final quarter of the 2nd session of the 55th Legislature on Thursday.
Speaking from the Senate chambers at the Capitol Building in Monrovia, the Lofa County lawmaker outlined deepening national security concerns, deteriorating police, citizen relations, and a troubling trend of reckless public discourse among government officials.
In a speech that was both reflective and forceful, Senator Cyrus warned that Liberia’s fragile democracy risks being undermined by institutional lapses, particularly within the Liberia National Police (LNP), whose credibility, he said, is under increasing strain.
“The continued delay in fast-tracking investigations and bringing them to logical and transparent conclusions risks eroding public confidence in the Liberia National Police,” he cautioned. “Beyond our borders, it also threatens to dent our human rights credentials as a democratic nation.”
The Senator cited several unresolved cases in Lofa County, including the mysterious deaths and disappearances of children and an elderly citizen, to illustrate the growing public frustration with law enforcement.
Among them: Siah John, discovered dead in Kintoma Community on January 25, with a coroner’s jury finding foul play.
Yarkpawolo, who died while in police custody a day later. An autopsy labeled the death “unnatural.”
Pewee Vasseh, a child missing since May in Konia Town.
Elder Sackie Freeman, reported missing in September in Ziggida Town, sparking protests and unrest.
“These are not just statistics,” Senator Cyrus said. “They are people. They are Liberians. And they deserve justice.”
He called on the police to “restore professionalism and rebuild public trust,” warning that failure to act diligently may lead to legislative consequences.
Senator Cyrus also addressed what he termed “unguided public discourse” by officials across government branches, including both the Executive and Legislature.
“Some of these statements have taken the form of public insults, threats, and intimidation,” he said. “Leadership comes with responsibility, restraint, and respect for the institutions we serve.”
He urged his fellow lawmakers and public servants to lead with integrity and protect Liberia’s hard-won peace.
Touching on other pressing issues, the Senator underscored the rising drug pandemic, alarming levels of youth unemployment, and vulnerabilities at Liberia’s borders as early warning signs that require urgent and coordinated responses.
“Idle youth easily fall prey to drugs, crime, and social disorder and we must act now to prevent that,” he warned.
He called for increased budgetary support for frontline agencies like the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA), along with a review of concession agreements to ensure fair benefits for Liberians.
Framing legislative service as a “covenant of trust” with the Liberian people, Senator Cyrus reminded his colleagues that citizens demand accountability, results, and leadership that rises above partisan lines.
“This isn’t just another sitting of the Legislature,” he said. “It’s another moment of reflection, a renewed call to duty to serve our people faithfully and move our country forward.”
As the Senate enters its final quarter for the session, the Senator urged a united, focused, and principled approach to national challenges.
