By: Journalist Archie Ayouba Boan
Movement for Progressive Change (MPC) political leader, Simeon Freeman, has stressed the need for the Liberian government to prioritize competence and professionalism in public sector appointments, arguing that the country’s development depends largely on placing qualified individuals in key government positions.
Speaking on OK FM, Freeman said government institutions can only function effectively when they are led by people with the necessary skills, experience, and expertise to carry out their responsibilities.
According to him, the appointment of competent professionals would improve service delivery, strengthen public institutions, and ensure the efficient use of state resources.
“Government positions should not be occupied by individuals who lack the capacity to perform. When qualified people are given the opportunity to serve, institutions become stronger and more responsive to the needs of citizens,” Freeman said.
The MPC leader criticized some government officials whom he accused of spending more time attacking political opponents than focusing on their official duties. He argued that officials who lack the qualifications for their positions often resort to public relations battles and political attacks as a means of protecting their jobs.
“People who do not have the skills to do their jobs often spend their time defending themselves and attacking critics instead of serving the people,” he stated.
Freeman specifically pointed to officials at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT), including Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah and Deputy Minister Daniel Sando.
He questioned the ministry’s performance despite what he described as substantial budgetary allocations, claiming there has been little visible progress to justify the resources provided.
He further accused some officials within the ministry of focusing on political criticism rather than addressing pressing national concerns and improving public communication services.
His comments come amid growing concerns raised by employees of the Liberia News Agency (LINA), who have publicly alleged financial mismanagement and operational neglect within the state-owned media institution.
LINA workers have claimed that despite significant budgetary appropriations over the past three years, the agency has seen little improvement in its operations. Employees allege that funds intended for the agency have not been managed transparently and that critical operational needs remain unmet.
According to the workers, reporters often lack essential equipment needed to carry out their duties and are frequently compelled to use personal mobile phones and internet data while covering official assignments. Employees have also raised concerns about delayed salaries and other employment-related challenges.
Additionally, staff members say LINA’s website has reportedly remained inactive for nearly two years, severely limiting the agency’s ability to disseminate information to the public and fulfill its mandate as a national news service.
In response to the situation, LINA employees have called on the National Legislature and President Joseph Boakai to intervene. They are urging the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to conduct a comprehensive audit of the agency’s finances and operations to determine how allocated funds have been utilized.
