Cabinet Shakeup in Liberia: President Boakai Announces New Appointments
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has initiated a significant cabinet reshuffle, replacing key officials across various government institutions. This move is part of the president’s ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, improve institutional performance, and ensure accountability and efficiency within the public sector, aligning with the ARREST Agenda.
The Executive Mansion released a statement late on Monday, outlining the changes. It emphasized that these appointments are subject to Senate confirmation where applicable. The new nominations include several high-ranking positions, particularly in the Ministry of Mines & Energy, Education, and other critical sectors.
Key Appointments in the Ministry of Mines & Energy
In the Ministry of Mines & Energy, Mr. R. Matenokay Tingban has been appointed as the new Minister. He previously served as the Deputy Minister of Mines during the tenure of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Alongside him, Mr. Sumo Samuel Momolu has been named Assistant Minister for Mines, while Mr. Samuel Summerville will serve as Assistant Minister for Mining Exploration.
This change marks the removal of the previous Mines Minister, signaling a shift in leadership within the sector. The new appointments aim to enhance the ministry’s operational efficiency and ensure better oversight of Liberia’s mineral resources.
Other Government Departments Affected
The cabinet shakeup also includes changes in other departments. In the Ministry of Education, Mr. Thomas Momo Parker and Mr. Oscar Gurtor Flomo have been appointed as Deputy and Assistant Ministers for Planning, Research, and Development, respectively.
The National Commission on Higher Education now has Dr. Cecelia Cassell as its Executive Director. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has seen the appointment of Ms. Agnes C. Marshall and Ms. Josephine Greaves as Assistant Ministers for Children and Social Protection, and Research, Policy, and Planning, respectively.
Changes in the Liberia Airport Authority (LAA)
The Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) has also undergone significant changes. The President has accepted the resignation of Hon. Massaquoi Kamara, the Chairman of the Board, and directed the retirement of Managing Director Hon. Jeremiah Mends-Cole on medical grounds.
New appointments at the LAA include Mr. Ernest R. Hughes as Managing Director and Mr. Nyan Mantein as Chairman of the Board. These changes are expected to bring about improved management and operations at the country’s airports.
Civil Service Agency and Immigration Service
The Civil Service Agency Board of Appeal has appointed Mr. A. Blamo Sieh as Co-Chair. Additionally, the Liberia Immigration Service has seen the appointment of Mr. Nelsco A. Wolo as Deputy Commissioner General for Administration.
Judicial Appointments
The judiciary has also experienced changes. Cllr. William G. Capehert has been appointed as a Judge in the Traffic Court, Gbarnga City. Cllr. Eric Morlu, Cllr. Daniel D. Dolokelen, Atty. Anthony Kollie, and Cllr. Rennie O. Moses have been appointed as Judges in the Debt and Criminal Courts across different counties.
Acknowledging Previous Contributions
President Boakai expressed his appreciation for the dedicated service of the outgoing officials and urged the newly appointed individuals to serve with integrity, diligence, and a renewed sense of duty to the Liberian people.
About the Author
Alphonso Toweh has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer, and did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters.
He holds a first MA with honors in International Relations and is a candidate for a second master’s in International Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from the University of Liberia.