MONROVIA – Presidential Press Secretary Kula Fofana has affirmed President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s decision to suspend tenure officials, dismissing claims of a witch hunt. Following the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in favor of some tenure officials, President Boakai’s move to suspend several officials from both the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) and the Governance Commission (GC) has stirred controversy. However, Fofana rebuffed accusations of a witch hunt during an Executive Mansion weekly Press Conference on Friday, April 26, 2024.
Fofana elucidated that President Boakai’s actions regarding the LTA and GC aim to combat corruption, enhance transparency, and ensure accountability in the public sector. Notably, officials including Edwina C. Zackpah, Israel Akinsanya, Zotawon D. Titus, James Gbarwea, and Osborne K. Diggs were suspended from the LTA over allegations of financial improprieties and other malpractices. President Boakai has called for a thorough audit of the LTA by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to investigate these allegations, urging the suspended officials to cooperate fully with the GAC.
Emphasizing the imperative of integrity and accountability at the LTA, Fofana underscored that the suspension of the Chairperson and Commissioners reflects the President’s dedication to serving the best interests of the Liberian people.
Similarly, Chairperson Garrison Yealue of the Governance Commission was suspended for purportedly violating the Governance Commission Act, though specific provisions were not disclosed.
President Boakai has also initiated a committee to probe the alleged breaches of the GC’s act by Mr. Yealue. These decisions have ignited debates nationwide, with opinions divided between praise for the President’s anti-corruption stance and criticism of perceived political motives.
Additionally, Fofana announced President Boakai’s upcoming departure in early May to attend the African Business Summit in Dallas, Texas, USA. The summit, focusing on trade, commerce, and economic opportunities for Africa, will witness President Boakai leading a Liberian delegation. Fofana expressed President Boakai’s anticipation of engaging with African leaders and welcoming business executives and associates to explore prospects for Liberia’s advancement following the summit.
Moreover, President Boakai is scheduled to address the nation next week on his first hundred days in office, wherein he will highlight achievements, challenges, and future plans under the ARREST AGENDA.
