By Kruah ThompsonBUCHANAN, Grand Bassa County, July 29, 2026 — Liberia’s 179th Independence Day celebration in Grand Bassa County was marred by overcrowding after the main event venue reached full capacity, leaving traditional leaders, local residents, and some government officials unable to gain access to the hall. To accommodate those unable to gain access, organizers arranged chairs and installed a large television screen outside the venue to broadcast the ceremony. Several traditional leaders and elders expressed disappointment at being excluded from the main hall despite attending the national event. The incident raised questions about whether the venue was adequate to host an event of national significance, as hundreds of invited guests, residents, and visitors gathered for the country’s 179th Independence Day observance. Grand Bassa County hosted this year’s Independence Day celebrations, drawing President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, and visitors from across Liberia.