MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Office of the Ombudsman’s recent decision to penalize Anthony Kesselly, Deputy Minister at the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, for inappropriate social media posts is fueling discussions about public officials’ conduct online and the limits of free expression in Liberia’s political sphere.
On March 13, 2025, Kesselly appeared before the Ombudsman after a complaint was filed by Mr. Boye Kokoi, alleging that the Deputy Minister’s Facebook posts violated the Code of Conduct for public officials. According to Kesselly, he admitted to the language used in his posts while highlighting that his remarks were responses to what he described as “intense and persistent provocations.”
In its ruling, the Ombudsman found Kesselly’s comments to be in breach of provisions related to improper behavior and imposed a suspended fine of USD 2,500. Additionally, he was directed to issue a public apology acknowledging the inappropriateness of his language.
Despite having the right to appeal the decision, Kesselly chose not to challenge the ruling. In a public statement, he expressed regret for the language used, while maintaining that his remarks were prompted by relentless personal attacks against him and other public figures.
The ruling has reignited debate over how far public officials can go in defending themselves against criticism on social media platforms. Supporters of the decision argue it upholds the standard of professionalism expected from government officials, while critics claim it reflects selective enforcement and curtails public servants’ ability to respond to personal attacks.
“This ruling raises questions about whether officials are being held to an unequal standard,” said a political analyst familiar with the case. “While Kesselly is being penalized, others who engage in similar or worse exchanges often go unchecked.”
Kesselly, for his part, has vowed to be more cautious in his online engagements while continuing to counter what he calls “falsehoods and distortions” circulating on social media.
