IPNEWS: The Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) has authorized legal action against commercial well operators who fail to pay statutory water charges, escalating enforcement efforts against businesses the state utility says are undermining the country’s water service system.
The decision follows a resolution by the LWSC Board of Directors granting management authority to initiate lawsuits against non-compliant operators across Liberia in order to recover unpaid fees and enforce regulatory obligations.
According to the Corporation, persistent non-payment by some commercial well operators has weakened its ability to deliver water services and fulfill its statutory mandate.
“The decision comes amid growing concerns over non-compliance by certain commercial well operators, which officials say continues to undermine the Corporation’s statutory mandate and affects optimal service delivery,” the Board said in a statement.
The resolution cites provisions of the Amended LWSC Act of 2017, specifically Sections 88.4, Subsection 5(c) and 8, which authorize the Corporation to establish tariffs for commercial water users and pursue legal remedies against those who default on payment obligations.
Under Liberian corporate law, the Board noted, public corporations must obtain formal authorization through a Board resolution before initiating or defending legal proceedings. Without such authorization, the institution lacks the legal capacity to act in court.
By approving the resolution, the LWSC Board has formally empowered management to file lawsuits in any competent court in Liberia and, where necessary, pursue claims in other jurisdictions to protect the Corporation’s interests.
The resolution also authorizes management to retain qualified legal counsel both within Liberia and internationally to represent the Corporation in related legal matters.
Officials said the authority granted by the Board will remain in force until it is formally revoked in writing.
The move signals a tougher regulatory stance by LWSC as it seeks to enforce compliance within Liberia’s commercial water sector and ensure that operators meet their financial obligations under the law.
Corporation officials said enforcing statutory water charges is essential to maintaining sustainable water services and protecting public infrastructure that supports water supply across the country.
