The Ministry of Internal Affairs has announced the suspension of all traditional practices, including Sandy and Poro activities, across the country as of April 30, 2025.

Internal Affairs Minister Francis Nyumalin has stated that the recent decision stems from the unchecked spread of traditional practices that lack proper oversight and regulation. He emphasized that these practices not only disrupt the educational journeys of children but also contribute to the coercive initiation of adolescents for commercial exploitation. Nyumalin pointed out that without adequate checks and balances in place, such traditions can significantly hinder the academic progress of young learners, depriving them of the opportunity to pursue their education effectively. Furthermore, he highlighted the concerning trend of teenagers being forcibly involved in activities that primarily serve commercial interests, thereby putting their well-being and future at risk. This situation calls for urgent attention and intervention to ensure that the rights and education of children are safeguarded. The minister’s remarks underline the need for a comprehensive approach to address these issues, balancing respect for cultural practices with the necessity of protecting the youth from harmful exploitation and ensuring their right to education is upheld.

During a press conference on Tuesday in Monrovia, Minister Nyumalin announced that, after a meeting with the Council of Chiefs from all Fifteen Counties, it has been decided to pause all activities related to the Sande and Poro Society until January 2026.

He further set April 30th as a deadline for those currently in Poro and Sandy Bush to be release, thus threatening unspecified actions against would be violators.

In a related development, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has dissolved with immediate effect all positions of existing Cultural Leadership.

According to Minister Nyumalin, the decision was made to allow all Counties Cultural coordinator positions’ recommendation to be done through the office of the County’s Superintendent.

He furthered disclosed that he will be meeting with the Council of Chiefs shortly, to decide on the regulation of cultural activities.