Bong County, Liberia — Bong County Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr. has voiced significant concerns regarding a recent decision by the Board of Directors of the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) to reintroduce former Director General Dr. Walter Wiles into a key administrative role. Senator Moye stressed the importance of the board reassessing this choice to ensure professionalism and minimize political interference in the institution’s operations.
In recent days tensions have been mounting at the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) following what many staff members describe as an illegal and unethical move by two board members to seize key administrative roles at the institution.
Former Margibi County Senator Oscar Cooper and former CARI Director-General Dr. Walter Wiles controversially assumed the roles of Director of Finance and Administration, and Deputy Director General for Research Programs, respectively, despite both men currently serving as members of the CARI Board.
Their appointments, which insiders describe as self-imposed, have bypassed procedures mandated by the Act establishing CARI. Under the law, such senior roles must be publicly advertised, with a shortlist submitted to the President for official appointment, but such procedures were not followed the their appointments.
Addressing the recently in Gbarnga, Senator Moye highlighted the president Boakai’s commitment to fostering a corruption-free and accountable leadership environment. Moye cautioned that reinstating a figure with a controversial past could undermine the administration’s efforts to uphold these values. He also criticized the board for not prioritizing qualified young Liberians with advanced degrees in relevant fields, questioning the motivations behind selecting individuals familiar with the institution’s history over fresh talent.
In light of the ongoing discussions about these appointments, Senator Moye noted that while some offices within CARI are currently occupied, there remains uncertainty regarding future appointments and the institution’s financial objectives. The senator expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of appointing a former Director General alongside another individual, suggesting that such decisions might not attract the funding the organization requires.
Additionally, the Bong County Senator argued that the board should reconsider their approach, as it risks discouraging young professionals with advanced qualifications in agriculture and related fields. He emphasized the need to empower these emerging leaders, providing them opportunities to innovate and contribute meaningfully to CARI’s progress while adhering to necessary legal standards for experience.
Ultimately, Senator Moye called for a renewed focus on tangible benefits for the organization and its future leaders, advocating for an environment that nurtures new talent and fosters institutional success. He has promised to seek redress to the ongoing power struggle at the only research institute in Liberia.
