MONROVIA , LIBERIA – In a recent development, Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah, co-chairman of the Committee of National Defense, has urged the Executive to reconsider the dismissal of trained security agents from the Executive Protection Service (EPS). He emphasized that these officers were initially trained using taxpayers’ money and should therefore be given another opportunity for employment.
Highlighting the potential risks associated with leaving these highly trained individuals without employment, Rep. Kolubah proposed their reemployment in other security agencies such as the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) and the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA). He suggested that this proactive approach could contribute to maintaining peace, stability, and bolstering the government’s image.
Recent reports indicate that over 40 trained EPS officers were dismissed by EPS Director Sam Gaye due to various administrative reasons, including misconduct, insubordination, or underperformance.
During a session on Thursday, April 18, Montserrado County District #10 Representative stressed the importance of reemploying these trained EPS officers in other security apparatus to alleviate security tensions and restore order in the country.
Rep. Kolubah’s stance was part of his discussion regarding a communication he addressed to Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, requesting the presence of the Minister of Justice and heads of the Liberia National Police, Liberia Immigration Service, and the National Security Agency. The purpose is to gather detailed information about their recruitment and employment processes.
Before serving as a two-term lawmaker, Rep. Kolubah had an extensive career in the Liberia National Police for 11 years, working under three Police Directors, including Paul, Beatrice Sieh, and Chris Massaquoi. His roles included serving as Commander for Metro 1 and 2 Police Stations, Head of the Presidential Taskforce against Drugs, and leading the Police Specialized Team against Looting, among others.
While some argue in favor of recruitment, others support the idea of re-employing dismissed security officers who have already received training funded by taxpayers.
In response to Rep. Kolubah’s communication, members of the House of Representatives have voted to forward it to the Committee on National Security for investigation and reporting within a week. This move reflects the lawmakers’ acknowledgment of the importance of addressing recruitment and employment practices for the sake of the state’s security.
