Civil society watchdog, the Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD), has accused the Ministry of Health of violating Liberia’s Freedom of Information (FOI) Law after reportedly failing to respond to a formal request for public documents.
The Ministry of Health chairs the government of Liberia’s ‘Anti Drugs Multi-sectorial Steering Committee’, announced by President Joseph Boakai in January of 2024.
GASD Executive Director, James Koryor told KMTV news that the request was filed on August 11, 2025, and officially received by the MOH on August 13, 2025.
The organization, which primarily focuses its works on prevention of substance abuse and drug policy reforms, had sought access to the government’s National Action Plan and the progress report of the steering committee using the FOI law.
Koryor argued that the request was made in line with the FOI Law to ensure civil society organizations align their programs with government priorities and foster inclusive collaboration in the fight against drugs.
He referenced a statement issued by the Executive Mansion on August 6, 2025, attributing it to President Joseph Boakai, which disclosed that the government had received a progress report from the steering committee and was launching implementation of a National Action Plan with “robust strategies” to combat drug trafficking and abuse. “It was based on this announcement that we exercised our rights under the FOI Law,” he explained.
Despite the legal requirement under Section 4.1 of the FOI Law, which mandates that public authorities must respond to information requests within 30 days, GASD says the MOH has failed to provide either the requested documents or an explanation.
“We are worried that the MOH has failed to honor or respond to our request, which is a gross violation of the FOI Law. What is the government hiding?” GASD boss wonders.
Koryor informed newsmen, his institution is considering filing an appeal with the Independent Information Commission (IIC) and, if necessary, pursue legal action.
“If the government doesn’t have a developed national strategy to fight drug abuse, let it be known. But the fight against drugs must be transparent and inclusive. It requires all actors,” Koryor maintained.
