Liberia: 29 Liberians Seek Urgent Repatriation From South Africa
[Liberian Observer] Twenty-nine Liberians in South Africa have formally requested voluntary repatriation to Liberia, prompting calls for urgent government intervention to accelerate their return amid growing concerns over their safety, immigration status and vulnerability.
Twenty-nine Liberians in South Africa have requested voluntary repatriation, prompting calls for swift government action. The Concerned Chiefs of Staff of the House of Representatives is urging the National Legislature to issue a joint communique or resolution to expedite the process. Current arrangements for returning the Liberians are reportedly moving slowly, and the group fears further delays may put them at increased risk.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission have begun air transportation preparations, but the Concerned Chiefs argue for immediate diplomatic intervention, especially since many of the affected individuals are undocumented. South Africa is currently intensifying immigration enforcement, with 86,596 deportations processed between June and August of this year.
The Liberian Embassy in Pretoria has issued Emergency Travel Certificates for those scheduled for repatriation and is working with South African authorities to facilitate their safe departure. The Concerned Chiefs are seeking legislative oversight to ensure the repatriation process is completed efficiently and without bureaucratic delays, emphasizing the need to prevent potential harm to vulnerable Liberian nationals.
Written by urgent.news from AllAfrica's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
