EDITORIAL:  Hats off to LDEA’s Interim Team, Praying for Political Will and Momentum Sustenance

LIBERIA’S DRUG ENFORCEMENT Agency (LDEA) has got a critical role in addressing drug trafficking and abuse within the country, and it seems the recent appointment of Fitzgerald Biago as Officer-in-Charge and his two deputies, has brought about notable initiatives aimed at enhancing the agency’s effectiveness.

THE LDEA’S EFFORTS are part of broader national strategies to combat narcotics, which have significant societal impacts including affecting families and youth.

PAST ADMINISTRATIONS HAVE undertaken various measures, though challenges persist. Biago and team’s emphasis on professionalism, discipline, and integrity within the Agency, including internal accountability measures like mandatory drug testing for officers, represents a stated approach to tackling these issues.

THE SUCCESS OF such initiatives can depend on several factors including resource allocation, governmental support, and public engagement. Indeed, it is needless to state that the LDEA faces operational challenges such as funding, staffing, and border security. Plans for training and deploying additional personnel and acquiring equipment are elements of the agency’s strategy.

IT ALSO URGENTLY begs for strong and constant collaboration between the LDEA, civil society, media, and the community. It is highlighted as being critically important for progress. Transparency and responsiveness to public concerns are aspects of building trust.

WE THE NATION watches the evolution of new developments at the LDEA, let it be known that the agency’s actions and professionalism can influence public perception, particularly given historical challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in Liberia, as noted in reports like the 2024 State of Corruption Report (SCORE) by the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia regarding corruption perceptions.

ADDRESSING DRUG ABUSE also involves considerations around youth engagement, education, and opportunities for rehabilitation and vocational training. Support for such programs can be part of comprehensive approaches to reducing drug-related issues.

THIS IS WHY we are pleased to note that the initial LDEA’s efforts under Biago’s leadership include internal reforms and outreach, which are aspects of the agency’s current direction. Effective implementation and sustained support can be critical to outcomes in combating drug trafficking and abuse in Liberia.

CRUCIALLY, SUSTAINED POLITICAL will is needed to ensure the LDEA receives adequate fiscal support to carry out its mandate effectively. This includes consistent budgetary allocations and ensuring government officials, particularly those in positions of power, refrain from interference in the agency’s operations. Independence and autonomy in pursuing investigations and enforcement actions without undue influence are vital for the agency’s credibility and success.

AGAIN, SO FAR, we say, “kudos” to the new LDEA. But here is our earnest caution: while the initial energy and determination displayed by the LDEA under Biago’s leadership are encouraging, it is critical that this momentum is not short-lived. Sustaining the focus, discipline, and a sustained drive over the long term will be essential to achieving meaningful and lasting impact in combating drug trafficking and abuse. Consistency in actions and follow-through on commitments will be key to translating early signs of progress into tangible results.