Liberia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs Renamed to Ministry of Local Government

By: Geeplay Ezekiel Geeplay | Contributing Writer

Monrovia, Liberia | Jan. 21, 2026 | The Liberian government has renamed the Ministry of Internal Affairs to the Ministry of Local Government, marking a significant step towards decentralization and local governance.

This change follows President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s commitment to implement the Local Government Act of 2018 and promote inclusive development.

The renaming according to Minister Francis Nyumalin is part of efforts to operationalize the National Policy on Decentralization and Local Governance, devolving powers from central government to county and sub-county authorities. The Ministry will lead the implementation of decentralization, peacebuilding, and local governance laws and policies.

In a press conference Tuesday in Monrovia, Minister Nyumalin said the amendment to Chapter 25 of the Executive Law was unanimously passed by the National Legislature and signed into law.

He added that the Ministry of Local Government will now roll out the amended Local Government Act nationwide, calling for stakeholder cooperation.

The Ministry of Local Government Boss reaffirmed President Boakai’s administration commitment, aims to shift from a centralized governance system to one that empowers local communities.

Minister Nyumalin thanked the President for his leadership and the National Legislature for their support.

Changing the Ministry of Internal Affairs to the Ministry of Local Government is a big deal for it aims, to shift focus from central government to local governance; empowering counties and communities, ensure better representation and decision-making at local levels, in addressing community needs.

This change also aligns with President Boakai’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, aiming to marginalize no community.