Court Orders Freeze on FLY Bank Accounts Amid Legal Dispute

Friday, June 27, 2025

The Ninth Judicial Circuit Court, presided over by Resident Circuit Judge Jugbe J. Boima Kontoe, has issued a court order to freeze all bank accounts belonging to the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) pending the outcome of a civil lawsuit currently before the court. The decision stems from an Action of Damages for Libel filed by Abraham Kollie, the FLY Coordinator for Bong County. The lawsuit, which names several top FLY officials as defendants, has raised serious concerns regarding the legitimacy of the organization’s leadership and the conduct of its upcoming elections. In addition to the financial freeze, the court has also placed a Stay Order on the Federation of Liberian Youth’s planned 2025 general elections, effectively halting all electoral activities until the matter is resolved. The defendants in the case include Janica S. Elliott, current President of FLY; Abdullah D. Bility, Vice President for International Affairs; Emmanuel Tamba; Rosetta Gboto, Secretary General; and other executives yet to be formally identified. 

The plaintiff, Abraham Kollie, argues that defamatory actions and procedural irregularities have undermined the credibility and integrity of the Federation’s electoral process. He further contends that the accused officials acted unlawfully and in violation of the organization’s constitution and democratic principles, prompting the need for legal redress. The court’s decision to freeze the Federation’s financial assets is seen as a preventative measure aimed at preserving funds and preventing unauthorized transactions while the legal proceedings are ongoing. It also underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the broader implications for youth leadership and governance in Liberia. This development has sparked widespread attention among civil society actors and youth advocacy groups, many of whom view the Federation of Liberian Youth as a key platform for the political and social engagement of young people in Liberia. The case is expected to move forward in the coming weeks, with both parties preparing for full legal arguments and presentation of evidence. The court has not yet announced a specific date for final determination.