—Government Warns Construction on on alleyways, rights-of-way, or over utility infrastructure (water/sewer lines)
The Government of Liberia says in an effort to increase community access to alleyways; the Ministry of Public Works will commence alley investigations and openings in communities across Montserrado and Margibi counties.
In a statement, the Ministry o Public Works states that this exercise will provide community layout diagrams, identify clear encroachments, and increase pliability across these communities.
“The below schedule is for the month of April, and will be updated monthly.
We therefore encourage residents of Montserrado & Margibi Counties to remain patient, as this exercise will be carried out in all communities experiencing alleyway degradation and encroachments.
Communities & Locations, for the Public Work, and Investigation includes:
Thinker’s Village Union Ave. Paynesville April 6-11 2026, New Covenant Baptist Church Community Paynesville April 13-18 2026.
Other areas earmarked by the Public Works demolition Include Parker Paint Community Paynesville City from April 20-25 2026, Wowins Town Pipeline Road Community, Block B and Paynesville City
Beginning Tuesday April 27 – May 2, 2026, City View Upper Community, Johnsonville Township, while May 4-9 2026, include DoenTown, Lower Johnsonville.
On May 11-16 2026, Mount Barclay Baba Community, will be targeted Johnsonville Township, while, May 18-23 2026, Fendell Community Paynesville.
On May 25 -30 2026, Sims Community Coffe Farm ,and Caldwell, Bushrod Island will be reached, while June 1 – 6 2026, Jerusalem Community- Ricks Institute Junction and Brewerville by June 8 – 13 2026
Public works also encourage all personal requests for alley investigations will now be channeled through this community-based approach.
Recently, the government of Liberia reiterated its commitment to continuing EMOITION for urban planning and public safety purposes. However, there remains significant pushback and specific advice from various stakeholders calling for an immediate halt or modification to these exercises.
Contrary to this, the Ministry of Public Works maintains that demolitions are necessary to improve public access, sanitation, and emergency services, especifically those built on water and sewage lines or in prohibited zones without valid permits.
Following the National Zoning Law and Ministry construction policies.
The Ministry claims they provide a notice period—often up to three months—to allow for self-demolition or relocation before enforcement.
Early this year several political figures and civil society groups have urged the government to halt the process, including Senator Saah H. Joseph of Montserrado County called for an urgent stop to demolitions, citing “mass displacements” and claiming some were based on fraudulent land deeds.
Also, Former Deputy Minister Atty. Isaac W. Jackson Jr., urged a suspension until fair compensation is provided, arguing that the current actions violate the Land Rights Act of 2018.
The Alternative National Congress (ANC) and other advocates also demanded that no further demolitions occur without a “comprehensive resettlement plan” and “meaningful community engagement”.
To avoid potential demolition, property owners are advised by the Ministry of Public Works and legal experts to Lawfully secure a Construction Permit from the Division of Zoning & Land Use Planning before building or Conduct thorough title searches at the Liberia Land Authority (LLA) to ensure ownership is legitimate with a warning that there will be no construction on alleyways, rights-of-way, or over utility infrastructure (water/sewer lines)
