MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia has confirmed that it has agreed to receive Mr. Kilmar Abrigo Garcia, a 30-year-old father of two who is being removed from the United States, on strictly humanitarian grounds.
Justice Minister and Attorney General, Cllr. Oswald Tweh, addressing a special joint press conference on Friday alongside Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow-Nyanti and Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, clarified that Garcia’s stay in Liberia will be temporary, and that he is not being accepted as a prisoner or criminal.
“The Government has agreed to receive and provide protection for Mr. Kilmar Abrigo Garcia, who is being removed from the United States of America,” Minister Tweh announced. “This decision is based purely on humanitarian grounds and is consistent with Liberia’s international obligations, laws, and immigration policies.”
Tweh emphasized that Garcia will be free to live and move within Liberia, and his right to leave the country at any time is guaranteed under Article 13 of the Liberian Constitution.
“He will be free to reside in Liberia, he will be free to leave. His exit from the Republic of Liberia is guaranteed. There will be no harassment or intimidation,” Tweh said, adding that Garcia’s family will be allowed to visit him freely.
The Justice Minister underscored that Liberia’s decision aligns with its longstanding tradition of offering refuge to individuals in need of protection.
“If you know the history of Liberia, this is consistent with our tradition of providing sanctuary for individuals. We have done this for ages and will continue to do so,” he added.
No U.S. Pressure, Says Foreign Minister Beysolow-Nyanti
Speaking moments later, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow-Nyanti stressed that the government’s decision was made voluntarily and without any diplomatic pressure from the United States.
“We are under no diplomatic pressure to take him,” she clarified. “This decision was made thoughtfully, purely on humanitarian grounds. He is not a criminal, and based on our analysis, there is no security risk to Liberia.”
The Foreign Minister further disclosed that Garcia himself did not object to coming to Liberia, noting that “Liberia was not on the list of countries he refused to go to.”
Beysolow-Nyanti explained that while the Government of Liberia has agreed to receive Garcia, the final decision on his transfer remains in the hands of U.S. authorities.
“He may come or he may not come. We have no control over the processes in the United States,” she noted.
Information Minister Piah: Government Acting Transparently
Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, who convened the press conference, said the joint appearance of the three senior officials was intended to ensure clarity and transparency on the government’s position.
“We decided to stand together as we address the press so the public understands the full context of our position,” Piah said, thanking journalists for responding at short notice.
Background: From Caution to Confirmation
Just days earlier, during another press conference, Foreign Minister Beysolow-Nyanti told reporters that the U.S. Government had not yet approached Liberia to host any individuals being deported from American soil. She, however, noted that she “would not be surprised” if such a request came.
That request has now reportedly been made — prompting today’s confirmation from the government.
Mr. Kilmar Abrigo Garcia, whose legal battles with the U.S. Government have drawn international attention, reportedly faces deportation following years of litigation over his immigration status. His case has sparked diplomatic and humanitarian interest across multiple countries.
Liberia’s decision to receive Garcia — if the U.S. finalizes his removal — underscores the Boakai administration’s commitment to upholding humanitarian principles and international cooperation, while maintaining national security and constitutional guarantees.
