Liberians defend gambling industry against former minister’s call for ban
Citizens stand up to protect Liberia’s gambling industry, highlighting jobs, revenue and economic benefits amid the former minister’s push for a ban.
Liberia.- Strong public criticism has emerged in Liberia after former Commerce Minister Amin Modad called for a ban on gambling and sports betting. Politician Byron Browne Jr. defended the gambling sector as a legitimate contributor to the economy, pointing out that the government generates “over three million United States dollars” each year from gambling entities.
Modad, who resigned from President Joseph Boakai’s administration in October 2024 amid controversy over a vehicle procurement deal, argued that gambling preys on Liberia’s vulnerable populations.
“Gambling and sports betting must be banned,” he said. “Gambling has become a pervasive epidemic that is quietly yet devastatingly destroying our society. The next issue that must be addressed and ultimately banned from our society is gambling and sports betting.”
Browne Jr hit back, defending the gambling sector as a crucial part of Liberia’s economy. “Aren’t you aware that gambling is legal under our Liberian law and contributes toward our national budget annually? The government generates over three million United States dollars from casino and betting entities annually”, he said according to DN-News Liberia.
Highlighting both the jobs at stake and the safeguards already in place within Liberia’s gambling industry, Browne Jr said: “Hundreds of Liberians are in the employ of these betting entities you want the gov’t to shut down. There’s also a general warning attached to betting that says ‘betting is prohibited for underage.’ I disagree with you that gambling should be banned. You’re not reading. Learn to research and read.”
Public anger over Modad’s gambling call
The controversy quickly ignited on social media, with Liberian citizens expressing frustration over Modad’s stance. Meme Potter said: “So you want all casinos to close too? Are you to yourself. Don’t you know most developing countries have such and this has a profitable impact in the economy.”
Brent Gian tied his criticism to Modad’s resignation over the vehicle procurement controversy, saying: “You bought that big car that that made you walked out of govt. I disagree with you that gambling should be banned.”
Pius Kollins added: “He’s just insane, my question here is – What is the significance of the Liberia National Lottery, if there should be a ban on gambling?”
The debate highlights Liberia’s struggle to balance social concerns with economic realities. While Modad wants to protect the vulnerable, critics warn that banning gambling could cost jobs, revenue and harm an important legal industry.
