Liberia Signs $1.2 Million Annual Lobbying Contract with Washington Firm Ballard Partners

Liberia has entered into a one-year lobbying and strategic consulting agreement with Washington-based firm Ballard Partners, committing to pay the company $100,000 per month to represent the country’s interests before the United States government.

According to a copy of the agreement obtained by DNNews, the contract was signed on May 18, 2026, by Minister of State for Presidential Affairs Samuel A. Stevquoah on behalf of the Government of Liberia and by Brian D. Ballard, President of Ballard Partners, Inc.

The agreement requires Liberia to pay the firm a monthly retainer of $100,000, amounting to $1.2 million annually. Payments will be made in quarterly installments of $300,000. In addition to the retainer, the government will cover reasonable expenses incurred during the course of the representation, including registration fees, travel, accommodation, airfare, transportation, and meals.

Under the terms of the contract, Ballard Partners will provide strategic consulting and advocacy services, representing Liberia on issues the government considers important in its dealings with the U.S. government. The Liberian government, in turn, is obligated to provide information necessary for the firm’s work and ensure timely payment for services rendered.

The agreement has an initial duration of one year but will automatically renew for additional one-year terms unless either party provides a 30-day written notice of termination. The first quarterly payment became due upon the execution of the contract.

Ballard Partners operates from its headquarters at 601 13th Street NW in Washington, D.C. As required under the United States Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), lobbying firms representing foreign governments must disclose their contracts, fees, and lobbying activities to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Background: What is Ballard Partners?

Ballard Partners is one of the most influential lobbying and government affairs firms in Washington, D.C. The company was founded by Brian Ballard, a veteran political strategist and fundraiser with strong ties to Republican politics in the United States.

The firm provides lobbying, public affairs, strategic communications, and government relations services to corporations, trade associations, and foreign governments seeking to advance their interests before the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and the White House.

Over the years, Ballard Partners has represented several international governments and major global companies. The firm became particularly prominent during the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump, with media reports often describing it as one of Washington’s most politically connected lobbying firms.

For countries such as Liberia, lobbying firms are often hired to strengthen diplomatic engagement, promote investment opportunities, support development priorities, and advocate for favorable policy considerations within the U.S. government.