Article 3 of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia establishes the foundational structure of Liberia as a unitary sovereign entity that is divided into 15 counties for administrative purposes.

Republican Form of Government

• The government is republican, implying a representative democracy where officials are elected by the people.

Division of Government Authority

Liberia’s government is divided into three distinct branches to ensure effective governance and maintain checks and balances:

1. Executive Branch
   • Led by the President, who serves as both the head of state and the head of government.
   • The President’s main responsibilities include implementing national policies related to administration, security, and foreign affairs.
   • The President is elected by popular vote for a six-year term and can be re-elected for one additional term.
   • The President appoints members of the Cabinet, who are responsible for managing government departments. These appointments must be confirmed by the Senate.
2. Legislative Branch
   • The Legislature is bicameral, consisting of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives.
   • Senate:
     • Composed of 30 members, with two Senators elected from each of the 15 counties.
     • Senators serve nine-year terms.
   • House of Representatives:
     • Comprised of 73 members, each elected to represent a specific district.
     • Representatives serve six-year terms.
   • The Legislature’s key functions include creating laws, approving amendments to the Constitution, approving the national budget, and ratifying international agreements.
3. Judicial Branch
   • The Judiciary ensures that all laws and executive actions conform to the Constitution.
   • It acts as the final interpreter of the Constitution and adjudicates legal disputes.
   • This branch plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens.

Counties of Liberia

Liberia’s administrative divisions, or counties, serve as the local administrative units under the central government. Here are the 15 counties:

1. Bomi County - Capital: Tubmanburg; Location: Western Liberia
2. Bong County - Capital: Gbarnga; Location: Central Liberia
3. Gbarpolu County - Capital: Bopolu; Location: Western Liberia
4. Grand Bassa County - Capital: Buchanan; Location: Central Liberia, along the coast
5. Grand Cape Mount County - Capital: Robertsport; Location: Northwestern Liberia, along the coast
6. Grand Gedeh County - Capital: Zwedru; Location: Southeastern Liberia
7. Grand Kru County - Capital: Barclayville; Location: Southern Liberia
8. Lofa County - Capital: Voinjama; Location: Northwestern Liberia
9. Margibi County - Capital: Kakata; Location: Central Liberia
10. Maryland County - Capital: Harper; Location: Southeastern Liberia, along the coast
11. Montserrado County - Capital: Bensonville (Bentol); Monrovia, the national capital, is also located here; Location: Western Liberia, along the coast
12. Nimba County - Capital: Sanniquellie; Location: Northeastern Liberia
13. River Cess County - Capital: Cestos City; Location: Central Liberia, along the coast
14. River Gee County - Capital: Fish Town; Location: Southeastern Liberia
15. Sinoe County - Capital: Greenville; Location: Southeastern Liberia, along the coast