Gender Ministry Slams SUP’s Allegations, Reaffirms Commitment to Fighting Gender-Based Violence

Monrovia, Liberia: The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has strongly refuted claims by the University of Liberia student-based Unification Party (SUP) that Gender Minister Gbeme Horace-Kollie has been silent on the rising violence against women and children in Liberia.

On February 18, 2025, Bendu M.Q. Kamara, Chairperson of SUP's Women's Praesidium Bureau, criticized Minister Horace-Kollie for her perceived silence on the increasing violence against women and children.

SUP expressed grave concern over the government’s inaction regarding several recent violent incidents, including the deaths of seven-year-old Junior Tamba in Lofa, Princess Zuo in Montserrado, and 15-year-old Angel Teah, among others.

However, the Gender Ministry described these allegations as misleading and a calculated attempt to divert public attention from critical issues.

“For the record, Minister Horace-Kollie has been proactive in advocating for the rights of women, children, and vulnerable populations. This includes taking appropriate action to support survivors of gender-based violence and implementing impactful programs addressing the needs of children in street situations,” the Ministry emphasized.

The MoGCSP highlighted several public engagements by the Minister, including radio appearances in 2024 and 2025, where she condemned gender-based violence.

Additionally, the Ministry cited published news articles, which underscored the Minister’s calls for urgent action to protect women’s rights.

Furthermore, the Ministry recalled its strong condemnation of the tragic death of Princess Zuo in December 2024 and its continued advocacy against violence toward women and girls.

Meanwhile, the Ministry has welcomed the latest performance report issued by NAYMOTE Liberia, covering the period from January to December 2024.

The Ministry expressed appreciation for the assessment, particularly in relation to Pillar 5, which talked about gender, youth, children, and social protection, where the ministry accumulated a passing score of 70%.

MoGCSP also acknowledged the importance of such evaluations in ensuring government accountability and enhancing service delivery for the Liberian people.

“This civil society-led initiative plays a vital role in urging government institutions to meet the needs of the people with excellence. We appreciate the thorough tracking and evaluation, which help hold institutions accountable for delivering high-quality services,” the Ministry asserted.

Looking ahead, the Ministry acknowledged the need for continued improvements and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its programs in 2025.

The Gender Ministry also expressed gratitude to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for his unwavering support, noting that his leadership has been instrumental in advancing the Ministry’s objectives.

MoGCSP extended appreciation to stakeholders, local and international partners, and its technical staff for their continued collaboration in improving the lives of women, children, and vulnerable populations.

“As we strive for a violence-free society, we encourage stakeholders and advocacy groups to join the Ministry’s awareness campaigns against gender-based violence,” the statement concluded.

MoGCSP reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to delivering quality services to the Liberian people and encouraged professional civil society organizations and advocacy groups to engage in productive dialogue that drives meaningful change.

Edited: E. Geedahgar Garsuah, Sr.