The Ministry of Health has officially appointed Philip Johnson, a prominent member of Protemp Nyonblee’s office staff, as the new Administrator of the Grand Bassa County Health Team. Effective February 17, 2025, his appointment follows a formal agreement with the Ministry.
As the County Health Services Administrator, Johnson will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of health policies, managing resources, and working closely with the Deputy Minister for Administration, his direct supervisor, to ensure the county’s healthcare services meet the needs of local communities.
Additionally, his appointment comes with a three-month probationary period, after which his performance will be evaluated for final confirmation in the position.
The Ministry of Health has expressed confidence in Johnson’s leadership, citing his experience within Protemp Nyonblee’s office as a solid foundation for his new role. His administrative skills and insight into the operations of public health are seen as key assets for overseeing the health sector in Grand Bassa.
However, Johnson’s appointment has sparked strong opposition from local health workers. In a formal resolution submitted to Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, Minister of Health, the Grand Bassa County Health Team has expressed their rejection of Johnson, advocating for Yassah V. Sumo to be appointed County Health Services Administrator instead.
The health workers highlighted Ms. Sumo’s impressive track record in the county’s healthcare services, noting her leadership in various critical roles, including Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Supervisor, Second Screener, Officer-in-Charge (OIC), and her current role as District Health Officer.
They further emphasized her qualifications as a Registered Nurse with a Master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition, alongside her proven ability to manage teams and coordinate healthcare initiatives effectively.
In their resolution, the health workers state that Ms. Sumo’s extensive experience within the Bassa County Health Team positions her as a highly qualified candidate to lead the team and improve healthcare services for the local communities. They express confidence that her leadership would better serve the needs of Grand Bassa County.
“We strongly urge the appointment of Yassah V. Sumo as County Health Services Administrator. We believe her experience, qualifications, and commitment to public health make her the best candidate for this position,” the health workers stated in their letter to Minister Kpoto.
The Ministry of Health has yet to respond to the resolution, and it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve. As the debate intensifies, all eyes are on the Ministry’s next steps in resolving this matter.
