The Office of the Ombudsman’s Recommendations: A Crucial Test for President Boakai
By Seltue Karweaye Sr.
The Office of the Ombudsman was officially established during President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s administration, with its legal framework created in 2014. Yet, despite its foundational importance, the full operationalization of this office has been impeded by challenges such as inadequate funding and persistent political resistance.
Towards the end of President Sirleaf’s second term, the Ombudsman office came tantalizingly close to realization when she appointed the three officials mandated by law. Unfortunately, progress was thwarted when it was revealed that one of the nominees failed to meet the age requirement for the position, and President Sirleaf did not take action to rectify this oversight. Under her successor, President George Manneh Weah, the Office of the Ombudsman remained dormant, failing to fulfill its critical role in enforcing the National Code of Conduct.
The significance of the Office of the Ombudsman cannot be understated; it is widely recognized as a powerful tool for curbing abuses of power in public administration. This office exemplifies the implementation of the rule of law, safeguarding the rights of citizens as enshrined in our Constitution and other legal frameworks. By holding the government accountable and correcting unintentional or otherwise wrongful actions, the Ombudsman ensures the integrity of governance.
This is why Liberians breathed a sigh of relief when President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. officially commissioned the Office of the Ombudsman, marking a pivotal milestone in our country’s pursuit of enhanced transparency and accountability. In his address, President Boakai passionately underscored the vital role of the Ombudsman in our governance framework, signaling a commitment to reshape the landscape of accountability in Liberia.
On July 25, 2025, the Office of the Ombudsman recommended to President Boakai the dismissal of several government officials for violating Sections 5.1(a), (b), (c), and 5.8 of the Code of Conduct.
The officials recommended for dismissal include: MacDella Cooper (Senior Political Advisor to the Office of the President, Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs), Emmanuel Tulay (Chair of the Liberia Electricity Corporation), Cooper Kruah (Minister of Labor), Lucia Yallah (Environmental Protection Agency), Emmanuel Zorh (Assistant Minister of Labor for Labor Standards), Luther Tarpeh (National Port Authority Board Member), Amos Tweh (Managing Director of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company), Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah (Deputy Minister of State), Whroway Bryant (Superintendent of Montserrado County), Emmanuel Kunneh Wreh Farr (Deputy Director for Administration at the Liberia National Fire Agency), Sheikh Kouyateh (Ambassador-at-Large in Liberia’s Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs), Ben Fofana, (Commissioner of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority), Patience Randall (Director General of the Liberia Business Registry), Edmund Forh (Managing Director of the National Transit Authority), Togar Melvin Cephas (Deputy Managing Director for Administration at the National Transit Authority), Lucia Tarpeh (Development Superintendent of Montserrado County) Robert Bestman ( Mayor of Paynesville City), James Yolei (Assistant Minister for Operations, Ministry of Internal Affairs), Collins Tamba (Assistant Minister for Technical and Vocational Education and Training at the Ministry of Youth and Sports), Selena Mappy (Deputy Minister for Operations at the Ministry of Internal Affairs), Kansualism Kansuah (Member of the Board of Directors, Liberia Special Economic Zone Authority), Kuku Dorbor (Member of the Board of Directors, Liberia Special Economic Zone Authority), Jacob Smith (Deputy Managing Director for Administration), Daniel O. Sando (Deputy Minister of Information), Ansu Dulleh (Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Agency), and Kelvin D. J. Mattaldi (Assistant Minister, Ministry of Commerce).
Sections 5.1(a), (b), (c), and 5.8 of the Code of Conduct play a critical role in maintaining ethical standards within our government. They specifically address issues such as political participation, abuse of office, and conflicts of interest, particularly focusing on the responsibilities of public officials who engage in electoral or partisan activities while occupying appointed positions. These provisions are designed to ensure that officials fulfill their duties impartially and without the influence of external political pressures.
On August 7, 2024, during the official inauguration of the Office of the Ombudsman, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. emphasized the historical significance of this event. He remarked, “Today marks a crucial moment in our country’s history. The creation of the Ombudsman represents a significant advancement toward ensuring transparency, justice, and accountability within our government.” President Boakai’s statement underlines his commitment to establishing a system that holds public officials accountable for their actions.
It is of utmost importance for President Boakai to wholeheartedly implement the recommendations put forth by the Office of the Ombudsman, particularly concerning the dismissal of certain officials who have been flagged for termination due to serious violations of Sections 5.1(a), (b), (c), and 5.8 of the Code of Conduct. These sections address critical issues such as ethical misconduct, conflict of interest, and the obligation of public servants to uphold the standards of their positions.
By decisively acting upon these recommendations, he will not only uphold the principles of transparency and integrity but also significantly reinforce public confidence in government accountability. This action would serve as a powerful statement that reinforces the rule of law and underscores his dedication to fostering a culture of responsibility among public officials.
Also, embracing the comprehensive recommendations of the Ombudsman is vital for fostering a culture of good governance and upholding the principles of administrative justice. By doing so, we can strengthen public trust in government institutions and ensure that the rights and interests of the Liberian people are effectively protected.
This commitment to transparency and accountability will not only enhance civic engagement but also promote a more equitable society. Mr. President, the choices you make at this pivotal moment will define your legacy and shape the future of Liberia for generations to come. I rest my pen.
