By Vaye Abel Lepolu
Monrovia – Liberia 178 Flagday Orator and Chief Executive Director on War & Econmic Crime Court Cllr. Jallah Barbu advocates, and urging President Joseph Boakai and national authorities to reconsider and lift the suspension imposed on traditional schools, particularly the Sande bush schools, stressing their role as vital cultural and educational institutions in Liberia.
The call comes amid ongoing debates on how to balance Liberia’s constitutional values with the preservation of its indigenous traditions. He argue that banning or indefinitely suspending traditional institutions risks erasing history rather than reforming it. They recommend instead that government establish cleared regulatory frameworks to guide all cultural and educational organizations, ensuring their practices align with human rights, justice, and modern standards.
Speak at Liberia National Flagday celebration, he noted that traditional schools, when properly regulated, can contribute to national development by promoting discipline, values, and cultural identity. They emphasized that harmful practices must be eliminated, but institutions themselves should not be discarded.
“This is not about going backward,” one cultural leader explained. “It is about reforming, regulating, and integrating our traditions into national progress. We cannot preserve unity and justice by erasing our heritage; we must reconcile with it.” Cllr. Jallah Barbu noted.
Cllr. Jallah Barbu also linked the issue to broader governance reforms, calling on the government to match its strong stance against corruption and incompetence with respect for Liberia’s traditional and cultural foundations. He praised the administration’s commitment to accountability but urged leaders to apply the same principles of fairness and justice in addressing traditional institutions.
As Liberia continues its push toward national unity, justice, and reconciliation, the demand to lift the suspension on transitional schools has emerged as a critical test of how the country balances tradition with progress.
At the same Liberia expects to Operationalize National Anti-Corruption Code, War and Economic Crimes Court by 2027
The Government of Liberia has reaffirmed its commitment to justice, transparency, and national unity, announcing plans to operationalize the National Anti-Corruption Code in November 2026 and the War and Economic Crimes Court in November 2027.
The announcement was made during a high-level address emphasizing the nation’s fight against impunity, corruption, and organized crime.
According to the overseeing the initiatives, the process is fully Liberian led, with support from both government agencies and international partners. He highlighted that the government has provided all necessary funding for ongoing awareness campaigns, operational preparation, and logistical support.
Cllr. Jallah Barbu speech also called for strong cooperation from all branches of government, civil society, and religious institutions to ensure the programs are effectively implemented. Citizens were urged to actively contribute to the nationwide anti-corruption and public education initiatives.
Significantly, Cllr. Jallah Barbu emphasized the preservation and reform of Liberia’s cultural and traditional institutions, such as the Sande and Poro schools, noting their critical role in the nation’s education and heritage. It was stressed that these institutions should be regulated rather than banned, ensuring that constitutional values are upheld while respecting cultural traditions.
Additionally, he stated that the government expressed concern over drug abuse and the need for reforms within the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), highlighting it as a national security priority. Preservation of historical artifacts, education, and promotion of civic responsibility were also underscored as essential for Liberia’s future.
Cllr. Jallah Barbu address concluded with a call for national unity, urging Liberians to embrace justice, truth, and reconciliation, while honoring the sacrifices of past generations. “We must build a Liberia where every citizen counts,” the Executive Director stated, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility.
