The plenary of the House of Representatives has established an ad hoc committee to investigate persistent telecommunications network issues in parts of Liberia, particularly in the southeastern region.
The committee has been tasked with probing GSM providers Lonestar MTN and Orange Liberia, along with regulators such as the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) and the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications.
During its 5th day sitting of the 1st quarter of the 2nd session on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, representatives from these entities appeared before plenary to address complaints about poor network services. The ad hoc committee has been given a two-week deadline to present its findings to plenary.
The decision to establish the committee was triggered by communications from Maryland County’s electoral districts #2 and #3 lawmakers, who highlighted the devastating impact of unreliable network services on citizens in the southeastern region. They reported that the poor network has significantly disrupted daily life, causing economic hardships, impeding business operation, and affected mobile money services critical for financial transactions.
According to the lawmakers, the lack of stable communication infrastructure has resulted in financial losses for entrepreneurs and traders, while citizens face the continued challenge of coordinating essential activities.
The committee is chaired by Representative Ivar Jones, and includes representatives Foday Fahnbulleh, Drwohn Gleekia, Austin Taylor, and Anthony Williams, who will serve as resource persons.
The investigation seeks to hold the GSM companies and regulators accountable and to ensure improved telecommunication services for all Liberians, especially in underserved areas.