By Edwin N. Khakie
BONG COUNTY, October 14, 2026 – Prof. Jonathan Omenika David, a native of Kokoyah District, Bong County, has challenged a proposal by the Ministry of Local Government to downgrade Botota City to township status, warning that any such decision must comply with Liberian law.
In an eight-page open letter to Local Government Minister Francis Nyumalin, David argued that changing Botota’s municipal status without following established legal procedures could undermine the constitutional principle of separation of powers and the authority of the National Legislature.
David, who resides in the United States, said he supports local government reforms but insisted that they must be transparent, fair and consistent with the law.
Citing Sections 9.2 and 2.16 of the Local Government Act of 2018, he maintained that decisions affecting the legal status of cities and townships must follow statutory procedures and respect legislative authority.
While acknowledging that the law provides for reviewing municipalities and potentially downgrading those that fail to meet statutory requirements, David argued that such changes cannot be imposed through unilateral administrative action.
He questioned whether communities that have experienced years of inadequate government investment should face further administrative changes without proper consultation and consideration.
David urged the government to ensure that any review of Botota’s municipal status follows due process and respects the Legislature’s constitutional responsibilities.
The Ministry of Local Government has not provided a response to David’s concerns in the information available for this report.
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