Czar M. Palay, Youth Chair of the Movement for Democratic Reconstruction (MDR) and senior official at the Ministry of Labor, has been dismissed from his government position in a move widely perceived as politically motivated. The dismissal, allegedly orchestrated by Vice President Jeremiah Koung, follows a public disagreement during the state funeral of the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson in Nimba County.
The Ministry of Labor, through Acting Human Resource Director Mohfel G. Dekpah, confirmed Palay’s termination in a letter dated January 23, 2025. The letter, signed by Minister of Labor Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, Sr., cited “administrative reasons” for the decision but did not provide specific details. It instructed Palay to return all Ministry property, effectively ending his tenure.
Palay’s firing came days after his controversial remarks at Senator Johnson’s funeral, where he publicly criticized Vice President Koung for advising MDR youth members to refrain from chanting traditional battle cries. Palay described Koung’s comments as an insult to the youth who had supported him during elections, sparking tension within the party and prompting backlash.
Insiders within the MDR revealed that Palay’s statements were deemed unauthorized and inappropriate, leading to an inquiry by the party’s leadership. In response to mounting criticism, Palay issued a public apology on social media, expressing regret for his remarks.
“I realize that my words were not only out of place but also deeply disrespectful to the solemnity of the occasion and the memory of our late political leader,” Palay wrote. “It was never my intention to cause distress or discomfort, especially to Vice President Koung and the families affected.”
Despite his apology, Palay’s dismissal has fueled accusations of political retaliation. Critics argue that the decision to terminate his contract was less about administrative concerns and more about silencing dissent within the party.
“This is nothing but a political witch hunt aimed at punishing Palay for challenging Vice President Koung,” said a party insider who requested anonymity.
The Ministry of Labor has declined to comment on allegations of political interference. However, the dismissal letter was reportedly distributed to high-ranking officials within the Ministry, including Deputy Minister for Administration Othello P. Mansor and internal audit, CSA, and finance departments.
Palay’s termination has exposed deeper fissures within the MDR. His clash with Vice President Koung has highlighted growing internal divisions and raised questions about the party’s tolerance for dissent. While the MDR leadership has not issued an official statement, the incident has left many questioning whether Palay’s dismissal marks an attempt to consolidate power within the party hierarchy.
Supporters of Palay have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction, describing his removal as unjust. Many argue that Palay was exercising his right to free speech and warn that his dismissal sets a troubling precedent for political accountability and party unity.
