The Liberia Diplomatic Think Tank (LiDTT) has expressed grave concerns over the prolonged delay by the Government of Liberia in fully disclosing and implementing the outcomes of the investigation into the mass posting of Foreign Service Officers by the previous administration.
The mass posting, conducted under former President George Weah, has been criticized for blatantly violating the Foreign Service Manual, specifically Part I, Section 1.5, which outlines the procedure for appointment to the Foreign Service. LiDTT is urging the current government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to take immediate and decisive actions to rectify these breaches, which have tarnished Liberia’s diplomatic image.
The LiDTT emphasizes that the failure to disclose and implement the findings of the investigation is eroding public trust in the foreign service reform process. Transparency and accountability are not just ethical imperatives but are also crucial for restoring Liberia’s credibility on the international stage. The delays in addressing these issues have left a stain on the nation’s diplomatic integrity, and only swift and transparent action can begin to repair the damage caused by the previous administration’s disregard for established protocols.
By fully disclosing the outcomes of the investigation, the current administration can send a clear message that it is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that Liberia’s Foreign Service operates within the confines of the established legal and ethical frameworks. This step is not just about rectifying past wrongs; it is about laying a solid foundation for future diplomatic engagements that are grounded in professionalism and respect for international norms.
LiDTT also draws attention to the pressing issue of Foreign Service Officers who have overstayed their missions, in violation of the guidelines set out in Part I, Section 10.3 of the Foreign Service Manual on Retirement and Pension. The failure to recall these officers not only contravenes established procedures but also undermines the effectiveness of Liberia’s diplomatic missions. Overstaying in a foreign post can lead to a range of issues, including diplomatic fatigue, a lack of fresh perspectives, and potential conflicts of interest.
The think tank strongly recommends that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs undertake the necessary recall of these officers and ensure that their replacements are rotated as mandated by Part I, Section 10.9 of the Foreign Service Manual. The regular rotation of Foreign Service Officers is critical to maintaining the dynamism and responsiveness of Liberia’s diplomatic missions. It ensures that officers remain sharp, engaged, and capable of effectively representing Liberia’s interests abroad.
LiDTT is particularly concerned about the practice of sending non-Foreign Service graduates to diplomatic missions. This practice, which has been prevalent in recent years, threatens to undermine the professionalism and effectiveness of Liberia’s Foreign Service. The institution believes that appointing individuals who lack the necessary training and qualifications not only damages Liberia’s reputation but also exposes the inefficiencies of its Foreign Service to international partners.
To safeguard the integrity of Liberia’s diplomatic corps, LiDTT recommends that all future appointments be limited to professional Liberians who have graduated from the Foreign Service Institute. These individuals have been trained and are well-versed in the functions and responsibilities of diplomatic missions, as outlined in Part I, Section 1.5 of the Foreign Service Manual. Ensuring that only qualified professionals are appointed to these critical roles is essential for maintaining the high standards expected of Liberia’s diplomats.
In the coming days, LiDTT will release the results of an in-depth analysis of the progress and challenges faced by Liberia’s foreign policy under the administration of President Joseph Nyemah Boakai, with a particular focus on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the leadership of Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti. This analysis will provide a detailed overview of the reforms that have been implemented, as well as those that are still urgently needed to enhance the effectiveness of Liberia’s diplomatic missions.
LiDTT remains committed to promoting Liberia’s foreign policy and advocating for the emergence of a new generation of diplomats who are equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The think tank is dedicated to ensuring that Liberia’s diplomatic engagements are characterized by professionalism, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to the nation’s best interests.
As Liberia navigates the complexities of international relations, it is imperative that the government takes the necessary steps to restore confidence in its Foreign Service. The actions taken in the coming weeks will not only define the legacy of the Boakai administration but also determine Liberia’s standing in the global community.
The Liberia Diplomatic Think Tank (LiDTT) calls on the Boakai administration to act swiftly and decisively to address the issues plaguing Liberia’s Foreign Service. The time for delays and half-measures is over. It is time for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take the bold steps necessary to recall and rotate overstayed Foreign Service Officers, ensure that all future appointments are made based on merit, and fully disclose the findings of the investigation into the mass postings by the Weah administration.
