Liberia Appoints Former Defence Chief to Lead Anti-Drug Agency

August 12, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

Liberian President Joseph Boakai has appointed retired Major General Geraldine George Ziankahn to lead the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency as the government moves to strengthen its response to narcotics trafficking and organised crime.

Ziankahn, a former chief of staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia, will report directly to the president while working closely with the minister of justice. Her appointment requires Senate confirmation.

The former military chief has spent decades in national security roles, including serving as minister of national defence and, more recently, as military adviser to Boakai. As army chief, she was involved in efforts to professionalise Liberia’s armed forces after years of conflict.

Boakai also appointed Precious Rue as deputy director general for operations and Prince Mulbah as deputy director general for administration at the LDEA. Both appointments are also subject to Senate confirmation.

All three appointees have been instructed to assume their positions immediately in an acting capacity until the Senate returns later this year.

The appointments follow an investigation by the Ministry of Justice into allegations linked to the country’s anti-drug enforcement apparatus. The changes form part of a government effort to strengthen coordination among security agencies and improve the country’s capacity to disrupt drug trafficking networks.

Boakai has described narcotics trafficking as a major threat to Liberia’s national security, public health and economic development. His administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards drug trafficking, corruption and organised crime, alongside increased enforcement and institutional reforms.

The president has also indefinitely suspended Fitzgerald Biago, a former officer in charge of the LDEA, from the Liberia National Police following what the government described as ethical transgressions.

The Ministry of Justice investigation did not find evidence linking Biago to illegal narcotics trafficking, but identified ethical concerns requiring further investigation, according to the presidency.

Following a National Security Council meeting, Boakai said allegations of misconduct would be handled according to due process and that public officials would be subject to accountability where evidence warrants it.

He directed the new LDEA leadership to work with security agencies, the justice ministry and international partners to disrupt trafficking networks, strengthen border controls and improve intelligence and enforcement capabilities.

"Our fight against drugs is a fight for the future of Liberia," Boakai said, adding that the government would pursue drug traffickers and those who assist them.

Source: FSX Business News