The House of Representatives (HoR) has invited authorities of the National Identification Registry (NIR) to appear before plenary on today, Thursday, June 19, 2025, to explain the persistent delays in issuing National Identification Cards to citizens all over the country.
The decision follows a formal communication from Bong County District #6 Representative, Moima Dabah Briggs-Mensah.
Madam Mensah raised concerns over the slow processing of ID cards despite applicants completing full registration, including biometric photo capture and payment.
Delays in the issuance of the ID cards to citizens have affected access to basic financial services, particularly for civil servants, contractors, rural residents, and vulnerable groups.
This Rep. Mensah said, is due to the enforcement of Executive Order No. 126, which requires a valid national ID for receiving or cashing government-issued checks and other transactions.
Rep. Mensah expressed further concern over the limited recognition of the Liberian passport for financial transactions, arguing that the Executive Order has “unfairly sidelined the internationally accepted travel document.”
She therefore, urged plenary to demand full disclosure from the NIR on the causes of the backlog, any technical or financial constraints, and what steps are being taken to address the situation.
She further recommended the inclusion of the Liberian passport as an alternative identification document for banking and public transactions.
The House’s decision mandates the NIR to present a clear plan for improving service delivery and explain how the legislature may assist in strengthening its operations.