GANTA, Nimba County — As tensions persist along Liberia’s northern border with Guinea, a group of former fighters has publicly declared its readiness to defend the country’s territorial integrity, while urging calm among citizens and backing President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s diplomatic approach to the crisis.
Speaking in an interview in Ganta City, Nimba County, former factional commander General K. Glborgbaye Young and his associates voiced strong concern over reports that Guinean soldiers have crossed into Liberian territory in Foya District, Lofa County, describing the situation as a matter of national sovereignty and pride.
“Liberians Should Not Panic”
Despite their strong rhetoric, the former fighters emphasized that Liberians should remain calm and trust the government’s handling of the situation.
“What I want to say to the citizens of Liberia, they shouldn’t panic… The President is pursuing the side of diplomacy,” General Glborgbaye said, expressing confidence in President Boakai’s leadership.
He stressed that Liberia’s pursuit of peace should not be mistaken for weakness, noting that the country has capable forces and experienced men ready to defend its borders if necessary.
Backing Diplomacy, Warning Against Provocation
The former fighters acknowledged ongoing diplomatic efforts, including recent high-level engagements involving President Boakai, Guinea’s leader Mamady Doumbouya, and regional actors under the Mano River Union framework.
General Glborgbaye described the President as “a law-abiding citizen” committed to international norms, adding that Liberia is seeking intervention from regional and global bodies, including ECOWAS and the United Nations, to resolve the dispute peacefully.
However, he warned that continued incursions could escalate tensions if not addressed promptly.
Call for Withdrawal and Respect for Sovereignty
At the center of their message was a call for Guinean forces to withdraw from Liberian territory.
“They should withdraw their men from every inch of Liberian soil,” the former commander declared, underscoring what he described as Liberia’s historical resilience and capacity to defend itself.
Other members of the group echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that their stance is not driven by a desire for conflict but by the need to protect national sovereignty.
“We don’t want war… but we cannot sit for another country to overrun us,” said Isaac Weah, who identified himself as deputy to the group’s leader.
“Peace, But Preparedness”
The group repeatedly stressed that their position is rooted in patriotism rather than aggression. They insisted that they remain law-abiding citizens who would only act under the authority of the state.
“We take lawful instruction from our present government,” another member noted, adding that their primary goal is to ensure Liberia remains secure and peaceful.
They also rejected accusations that former fighters were seeking to exploit tensions for personal gain, instead highlighting their reintegration into civilian life and commitment to national stability.
A Nation Watching Closely
The comments come amid growing public attention on the border situation in Lofa County, where reports of troop movements have raised concerns among residents and policymakers alike.
While Liberia continues to pursue diplomatic channels, the statements from former fighters reflect a broader national sentiment—one that combines a strong desire for peace with an equally firm resolve to defend the country’s sovereignty.
For now, the government’s approach remains anchored in dialogue and regional cooperation. But as voices from across the country grow louder, the situation underscores the delicate balance between diplomacy and national defense in safeguarding Liberia’s territorial integrity.
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