Championing Education Equity: A message from Sir Urias W. Brooks, Jr, Chief Executive Officer UMOVEMENT to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai

Dear Mr. President – Joseph Nyuma Boakai;

Ref: Urgent Appeal for Comprehensive Security Measures and Review of Executive Order #141

I inscribe with a deep sense of concern regarding the continued threat of violence in Liberia, particularly as it relates to the accessibility of firearms, the rise in drug abuse among young people, and the urgent need for stronger security measures.

After 22 years of senseless war and the tragic loss of innocent lives, many Liberians still exhibit war-time behaviors, including mob violence and brutal attacks with sharp weapons, often leading to fatalities. These acts of violence pose a significant threat to national peace and security.

Your Excellency, ensuring the safety of Liberians requires honest investment in state security apparatus, focusing on effective law enforcement and crime prevention. A critical aspect of this is the control of illegal firearms. I strongly urge your government to implement measures to track and regulate unauthorized firearm users, ensuring that weapons do not fall into the wrong hands.

Furthermore, the prevalence of narcotics among Liberian youth, particularly students, raises additional security concerns. There is a real danger that individuals under the influence of drugs could escalate conflicts by resorting to deadly violence, as seen in school shootings abroad. Tragic incidents such as the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in the United States, where 26 people were killed, and the Cyber-Ed Christian School shooting in Liberia, where 14-year-old Precious Ireland was fatally shot by a classmate, highlight the urgent need for preventive measures.

To address these growing concerns, I respectfully recommend that your administration:

1. Organize a multi-stakeholder dialogue on gun control laws, school safety, and mental health awareness to develop comprehensive policies that prevent violence in schools and communities.

2. Strengthen firearm regulations to ensure illegal users are identified and prosecuted while maintaining strict control over legal ownership.

3. Increase investment in security and law enforcement to enhance surveillance and crime prevention strategies.

4. Implement stronger drug prevention programs to reduce substance abuse among students and young people.

In light of these recommendations, I kindly appeal to you to reconsider and withdraw Executive Order #141 on Mandatory Firearm Registration, as its implications should be thoroughly examined through national consultations to ensure it does not inadvertently increase firearm access to unauthorized individuals.

Mr. President, Liberia stands at a critical juncture where decisive leadership can reinforce security, protect our youth, and ensure a safer future for all. I trust that your government will take the necessary actions to address these pressing concerns.

I appreciate your governance and look forward to your leadership in safeguarding the peace and stability of our nation.

In-Peace

Sir Urias W. Brooks, Jr.

c: 0880618261

e: brooksurias@gmail.com