By Lincoln G. Peters
Congo Town, Monrovia – The Grassroots Liberation Movement has formally called on the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) and the Ministry of Justice to launch an immediate investigation into the citizenship status of Liberia Football Association (LFA) President Mustapha Ishola Raji.
The demand comes amidst a heated debate over Mr. Raji’s eligibility to lead the football body, a controversy that has intensified as he seeks a third term in office. The LFA’s upcoming elective congress is scheduled for April 18, 2026, in Harper, Maryland County, where Mr. Raji is expected to face challenger Cassell Anthony Kuoh.
Speaking at a press conference over the weekend, the group’s Executive Director, Sam D. Gegeh, urged the government to take control of the matter, which has lingered in public discourse for months. He noted that while groups like the Student Unification Party (SUP) on the University of Liberia campus had previously raised similar concerns, those questions have remained unanswered.
“As such, we call on the Ministry of Justice to seize the matter,” Gegeh stated. “We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the Liberia Immigration Service performs its duties by carefully reviewing and verifying the citizenship status of the President of the Liberia Football Association.”
The Movement expressed confidence in the LIS, led by Commissioner Elijah Rufus, and urged the agency to act with professionalism. “We trust that the institution will take the necessary steps to launch a proper investigation in the interest of transparency, accountability, and respect for the laws of Liberia,” Gegeh added.
In his remarks, Gegeh outlined the legal mandate of the LIS—formerly the Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization—which was established in 1956 to enforce immigration laws, regulate migration, and protect Liberia’s borders. He emphasized that the agency operates as a paramilitary unit under the Ministry of Justice, tasked with managing the movement of non-Liberians and issuing residence permits.
“We believe that now is the appropriate time for the LIS to conduct a thorough investigation into this matter,” Gegeh said. “Addressing this issue will strengthen public confidence in our national institutions and ensure that the laws governing citizenship and leadership positions in national organizations are respected.”
