Criticism is intensifying against President Joseph Boakai’s administration over the dismissal of CDC supporters.
Among the vocal critics is former Auditor General John Morlu, who argues that recent actions reflect a troubling continuation of past mistakes in handling political appointments and civil service roles.
Morlu points specifically to the recent dismissal of nine employees by the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) as evidence of mismanagement.
He accuses the Boakai administration of mishandling appointments and neglecting the broader interests of Liberians.
This has led to increased calls for Boakai to demonstrate stronger leadership and address these concerns.
A central issue, according to Morlu, is the lack of a clear framework for presidential appointments in Liberia.
Unlike the United States, where a president can appoint a limited number of political appointees from a vast federal workforce, Liberia lacks a specific Presidential Appointment Act.
Morlu warns that this legal void allows the president to potentially appoint an excessive number of individuals to various positions without clear limits.
Morlu criticizes Boakai, Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, and Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa for not enacting laws to regulate political appointments.
He describes the lack of such legislation as fostering unchecked patronage and cronyism, labeling it as “Bad Governance 101.”
The controversy also extends to civil service employment practices.
Morlu, once an ally of President Boakai, accuses the current administration of repeating errors from previous governments, including those of Presidents Weah, Sirleaf, and Taylor.
He argues that dismissals based on political affiliation rather than merit undermine job security and contribute to widespread dissatisfaction among ordinary Liberians.
There are additional allegations of favoritism and exclusion affecting Unity Party (UP) partisans.
Morlu highlights that many high-profile positions in the Executive Mansion are held by individuals not affiliated with the UP, contrary to expectations that these roles should reflect the party’s platform.
Morlu advocates for a shift in focus from dismissals to job creation and economic development.
He calls for a more strategic approach to employment and economic policy, criticizing the current administration’s lack of progress in these areas.
In response to these concerns, Speaker Koffa has criticized Josiah Joekai, the Director of the Civil Service Agency (CSA), whose controversial dismissals have been a point of contention.
The push for a “Presidential Appointment Act” is gaining traction as a proposed solution to ensure more transparent and regulated appointment processes.
The ongoing debate underscores a critical juncture for Liberia’s governance.
As the country grapples with economic challenges and political instability, the need for effective leadership and sound governance practices is increasingly urgent.
Observers and citizens are calling on President Boakai and other key officials to address these issues decisively and work towards more equitable and transparent administrative practices.
