Monrovia – The Office of Liberia’s First Lady, Kartumu Y. Boakai, has been thrust into controversy following allegations that two staff members solicited and received a US$4,000 bribe from a Liberian parent in exchange for scholarships for his children.
The accused staffers, Varfee Holmes and Lemuel Vah, allegedly demanded $2,000 per child, claiming the payments would guarantee scholarships to study at universities in Great Britain. After receiving the money, the applicants alleged, Holmes and Vah failed to deliver on their promises and cut off communication.
The allegations have drawn public outrage, prompting swift action from the First Lady. After reviewing the case, Madam Boakai suspended both Holmes and Vah for one month without pay and ordered them to refund the full US$4,000 to the aggrieved parent. In a statement, the First Lady emphasized her zero-tolerance stance on corruption and reiterated the need for integrity and professionalism among her staff. She described the incident as regrettable and assured the public of her commitment to rebuilding trust in her office.
Holmes, who serves as Technical Consultant and Media and Communication Officer in the First Lady’s office, further fueled public anger during a January 9, 2025, interview on Spoon Talk. While admitting to receiving the money, he defended the payments as covering costs for a partially funded scholarship program. Initially, he denied the First Lady’s involvement but later conceded that she was informed of the matter “on the surface.”
The controversy has cast a shadow over the Office of the First Lady, raising concerns about ethical conduct and transparency within its ranks. Public reaction has been swift and critical, with many Liberians expressing disappointment over the scandal.
Madam Boakai, in addressing the issue, has reaffirmed her dedication to maintaining the dignity of her office and ensuring that it serves the Liberian people with honor and integrity.
