Othello B. Garblah, the publisher of The New Dawn, has made a strong appeal to the Liberian government to take swift action against illegal foreign settlers who have occupied forested regions in Grand Gedeh and Nimba counties. He highlighted that the continued presence of these settlers poses a significant threat to local residents, creating uncertainty regarding land use and undermining the national authority over its forest lands. Garblah's call for urgent intervention stems from a growing concern among community members about the stability and legality of land use in their vicinity, pointing to a need for government action to resolve these issues.

For years, these foreign settlers have lived in the forests without proper authorization, despite ongoing diplomatic negotiations with neighboring countries to address the situation. Garblah's remarks underscore the urgency of reassessing land rights and the government’s responsibilities in safeguarding Liberia’s natural resources. He argues that the presence of these unauthorized settlers not only complicates local governance but also threatens the integrity and sustainability of Liberia's forests.

Garblah emphasizes the need for the government to assert national control and take definitive steps to ensure that Liberians retain their rights to their lands. The issue raises questions about the implications of foreign presence in local communities and highlights the critical need for a focused response that prioritizes the welfare of Liberians and the preservation of their forests. Effective measures against illegal settlers are seen as essential to restoring trust within affected communities and reinforcing national sovereignty over its natural resources.