By G. Watson Richards
Assistant Minister for Peace-building, Hon. Mike B. Jabateh, has publicly voiced serious frustration over what he describes as uncertainty surrounding his position. “I am traumatized right now.”
“Why must you play games with me? I am frustrated and traumatized right now,” Jabateh said, expressing both personal and professional distress.
He underscored the emotional toll of the situation, noting its impact on his family. “My son can ask me, ‘Papa, they take your job from you?’” he added.
Jabateh explained that although a successor has reportedly been appointed, the individual has yet to formally assume office, leaving him in a state of uncertainty.
“I’m still there as Assistant Minister for Urban Affairs because the man they appointed hasn’t taken office. To prevent shame and confusion, that’s why I blew an alarm,” he said.
He warned that the situation could soon escalate into public embarrassment once the newly appointed official receives formal authorization and begins work.
“The day he gets his green letter and takes office, I’m going to be embarrassed-and I can’t fight the government,” Jabateh stated.
Beyond the question of his tenure, Jabateh raised concerns about structural challenges within the ministry, particularly the apparent lack of adequate office space.
“There is no office for peacebuilding. There is no office for the deputy and assistant ministers. Why must you play games with me?” he reiterated.
The assistant minister also described what he characterized as difficult working conditions during his two years in office.
“I have been in that ministry for two years. I don’t have a government car-it’s my personal car I’m using,” he said.
He further disclosed that he has personally covered basic office expenses typically expected to be provided by the state.
“My air conditioner spoiled, I fixed it. I bought my own desk in my office,” Jabateh asserted.
According to him, previous guidance from the country’s leadership had been to remain patient despite the uncertainty.
“The president said I should wait. I just made this post today to push them, to pay attention to me,” he explained.
Jabateh also hinted at broader dissatisfaction within the ministry, suggesting that other senior figures share his concerns.
“The general himself is not happy. The general is traumatized,” he said, without offering additional details.
His comments have sparked discussion about governance practices, particularly around appointments, transitions, and the allocation of resources to public officials.
Many political and legal pundits have noted that unclear transitions can create operational gaps and affect public confidence in institutions, especially when roles are not clearly defined.
As of publication, there has been no official response from the government regarding Jabateh’s claims or the reported appointment of his successor.
The situation continues to draw public attention, with observers calling for clarity to ensure stability and professionalism within the administration.
