GoL Warns Against Politicizing Border Situation-Calls for restraint, responsible national discourse

MONROVIA – As tension continues to build around the Liberia–Guinea border situation, the Government is now shifting attention from external developments to internal conduct, warning that the national conversation itself could become a risk if not properly managed. While citizens seek clarity and updates, authorities say the tone and direction of public discourse must not undermine ongoing efforts to maintain stability. Meanwhile, Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah has issued a strong caution against politicizing the situation, stressing that misinformation, speculation, and content-driven narratives—particularly on social media—could complicate sensitive diplomatic and security engagements currently being handled behind the scenes by the Government and its partners. THE ANALYST’S George C. Flomo reports.

The Government of Liberia has issued a firm warning against what it describes as the growing tendency to politicize the ongoing border situation with Guinea, cautioning that such actions could undermine national security efforts and complicate ongoing diplomatic engagements.

Speaking Tuesday during the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing in Monrovia, Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah addressed rising public commentary surrounding the border issue, urging both media practitioners and ordinary citizens to exercise restraint.

Minister Piah emphasized that while the situation remains under active management, the manner in which it is being discussed publicly has the potential to either support or disrupt the Government’s efforts.

According to him, crisis management—particularly one involving sensitive border dynamics—is not driven by constant public commentary, but by calculated, strategic engagement supported by accurate and verified information.

“The Government remains fully engaged,” the Minister stressed, but added that excessive speculation and politically motivated narratives risk creating unnecessary complications.

His remarks come at a time when the Liberia–Guinea border situation has increasingly dominated public discussion, both in traditional media and across social media platforms, where competing narratives, unverified claims, and emotional reactions have become widespread.

Minister Piah made it clear that Government communication on the issue will not be driven by pressure for frequent updates or dramatic statements, but by the need to ensure that information released is credible, accurate, and aligned with national security priorities.

He cautioned that attempts to force constant commentary could lead to misinformation or premature disclosure of sensitive information, which could in turn undermine ongoing diplomatic processes.

Of particular concern to the Government is the role of social media actors, whom the Minister described as being “desperate for content,” often amplifying inconsistencies or incomplete information in order to generate attention.

Such behavior, he warned, risks shifting the focus away from responsible national discourse toward what he termed “content-driven narratives” that prioritize visibility over accuracy.

“National security cannot be managed based on content creation,” the Minister implied, pointing to the dangers of allowing public discussion to be shaped by speculation rather than verified facts.

Minister Piah also addressed what he described as a troubling pattern of misinformation circulating within the broader political environment.

He criticized individuals—including some who present themselves as public leaders—for spreading unverified claims about the border situation, including allegations of significant financial expenditures.

According to the Minister, such claims are baseless and raise questions about both their origin and intent.

He warned that the deliberate spread of falsehoods is not only irresponsible but potentially dangerous, as it can incite panic and undermine public confidence at a time when calm and unity are essential.

“No one is above the law,” Minister Piah stated, signaling that individuals who persist in spreading misinformation or inciting unnecessary fear could face legal consequences.

Despite the growing intensity of public discussion, the Minister reassured Liberians that the situation at the border remains under control and has not escalated into open conflict.

He pointed out that this stability is not accidental, but rather the result of a deliberate and carefully managed Government approach that prioritizes diplomacy, coordination, and restraint.

According to him, much of the work being done to address the situation is taking place behind the scenes, where strategic engagements are ongoing at both national and regional levels.

The absence of constant public updates, he suggested, should not be interpreted as inaction, but rather as a reflection of the sensitive nature of the issue.

Minister Piah concluded by calling on Liberians to remain calm and to play a constructive role in maintaining national stability.

He urged citizens to avoid spreading unverified information, to rely on official sources, and to place national interest above political or personal considerations.

“National security is a collective responsibility,” his remarks suggested, requiring discipline, patience, and unity from all segments of society.

For observers, the Minister’s statement reflects a broader tension between the Government’s preference for controlled communication and the public’s demand for transparency in a rapidly evolving situation.

As the border issue continues to unfold, the balance between these two forces—information control and public expectation—may prove just as critical as the developments taking place on the ground.