MONROVIA – During the 2023 presidential election campaign, then presidential candidate Joseph Boakai emphasized pillars such as trust, confidence, credibility, and integrity. However, his administration is now confronted with a significant scandal involving one of its senior political advisors, McDella Cooper. Ms. Sajo Juwara has accused Cooper of having an affair with her husband, Alioune Kebe, who serves as the UP government’s Ambassador-at-Large for sports. The situation has escalated into allegations of bigamy. This scandal places President Boakai in a precarious position, prompting scrutiny of the moral and ethical standards upheld by his administration.
Sajo Juwara, who has known Cooper for 18 years, claims that Cooper has married her husband while he was still legally married to her. In a letter addressed to President Boakai, Juwara expressed her frustration, stating that she had already informed the Minister of State, Sylvester Grisby, about the matter, but Grisby failed to communicate this critical issue to the President. This apparent negligence by Grisby only adds to the controversy, suggesting a possible cover-up or at the very least, gross negligence.
This scandal places President Boakai in a precarious position. Known for his upright Christian values and esteemed reputation, Boakai’s administration is now at risk of being tainted by the actions of his appointees. The allegations against Kebe and Cooper directly contradict the values that Boakai’s leadership represents. Bigamy is a criminal offense under Liberian law, and if proven true, these actions demand a swift and decisive response from the highest levels of government.
Alioune Kebe’s alleged actions not only violate the law but also undermine the moral and ethical standards expected of public servants. As a figure who holds a public office, Kebe’s conduct sets a troubling precedent. The integrity of President Boakai’s administration is at stake, and immediate action is necessary to address these serious allegations. This issue highlights a broader problem of accountability and oversight within the government.
The involvement of McDella Cooper in this scandal raises serious questions about her judgment and suitability for her role as a senior political advisor. Cooper’s alleged actions undermine her credibility and bring into question her ability to serve in a position that demands high ethical standards. Her relationship with Kebe, if proven, suggests a disregard for both legal and moral boundaries.
The accusations against Cooper and Kebe cast a shadow over the Boakai administration’s commitment to the rule of law and ethical governance. President Boakai must demonstrate his leadership by addressing this scandal transparently and effectively. Ignoring or downplaying these allegations would only erode public trust and damage the administration’s reputation further.
President Boakai was elected on the basis of trust, confidence, credibility, and integrity. These principles must now guide his response to this scandal. The public expects him to uphold the values that he campaigned on and to ensure that justice is served, regardless of the individuals involved. His response will be a critical test of his leadership and commitment to ethical governance.
The allegations of bigamy against Alioune Kebe, if substantiated, necessitate immediate action. President Boakai must act to suspend Kebe from his position and ensure a thorough investigation is conducted. If Kebe is found guilty, he should be prosecuted to uphold the rule of law. This would send a strong message that no one is above the law, regardless of their position or connections.
Furthermore, the administration must review its processes for vetting and overseeing appointed officials. This scandal has exposed significant flaws in how appointments are made and monitored. Implementing more stringent background checks and establishing robust oversight mechanisms are essential steps to prevent similar issues in the future. The credibility of the Boakai administration depends on its ability to learn from this incident and make necessary reforms.
Public trust in government institutions is fragile and can be easily undermined by scandals such as this. The Boakai administration must prioritize transparency and accountability to restore confidence. This includes keeping the public informed about the steps being taken to address the allegations and the outcomes of any investigations. Clear communication is key to rebuilding trust and demonstrating a commitment to ethical governance.
The scandal involving McDella Cooper and Alioune Kebe is a critical test for President Boakai’s administration. It is imperative that President Boakai addresses this matter promptly and upholds the principles upon which his administration was elected. Only through decisive action can the integrity of his government be preserved and public trust be restored. The administration’s response to this scandal will determine its legacy and the future of governance in Liberia.
