Monrovia: The University of Liberia campus-based students’ movement, Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP), has called for urgent justice following the tragic death of comrade Lovette Tamba, a 32-year-old student who died due to alleged medical malpractice at the John F. Kennedy Hospital (JFK) on January 14, 2025.
Tamba, who was 26 weeks pregnant, sought treatment for stomach pain at JFK on January 9.
Her family alleges that negligence during her care led to her untimely death, yet no significant action has been taken by hospital officials or the Liberia Medical and Dental Council despite numerous attempts to initiate an investigation.
SUP has accused authorities of JFK for deliberately delaying accountability and protecting those responsible for Tamba’s care.
In a statement issued on Monday, February 10, SUP Chairman Sylvester Wheeler emphasized the party’s commitment to justice, noting: “The life of comrade Lovette Tamba matters, and we will not rest until those responsible for her death are held accountable. The silence surrounding her case is unacceptable.”
SUP also condemned a broader trend of mysterious deaths among young people in the country, labelling the current administration’s failure to protect citizens as a grave injustice.
“We’re tired of discovering dead bodies all around the country,” they declared, calling for immediate government action to ensure the safety of students and citizens alike.
In addition to seeking justice for Tamba, SUP raised urgent concerns regarding the lack of infrastructure at the University of Liberia.
They demanded that the government provide buses for students at the Fendell campus and adequate seating arrangements across all campuses.
SUP has given the Joseph Nyuma Boakai-led government and the University of Liberia administration 72 hours to respond to their demands, warning of potential “unspecified revolutionary actions” if justice is not served.
The party further criticized the ongoing neglect of the university’s facilities, stating that students are subjected to unsanitary and unfit learning environments.
Wheeler highlighted the need for immediate action, saying, “Students should not have to protest for basic amenities.
The absence of buses and chairs creates unnecessary stress and affects our academic performance.”
SUP similarly urged the administration to address issues with the online registration platform, which has been confusing students.
They called for an immediate extension of the “Add and Drop” period to accommodate those still trying to enrol.
At the same time, the Vanguard Student Unification Party has vowed to mobilize students for action if their demands are not met promptly, asserting that the future of student welfare hinges on immediate government responsiveness.
The party, through its Chairman, noted that it remains resolute in pursuing justice for Lovette Tamba and addressing the pressing needs of the student body.
