Liberia: Boakai Suspends Immigration Boss

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai suspended the Commissioner General of the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), Mr. Stephen HJ Zargo, without pay for three months with immediate effect.

The suspension was imposed due to Zargo’s improper performance of his official duties, as stated in a statement from the Executive Mansion on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. The statement doesn’t say exactly what Zargo did to warrant a three-month suspension, except for: “Administrative reasons.”

Zargo, a former Lofa County Senator, was directed to surrender all official materials, assets and office belongings to the Deputy Commissioner General for Administration during his suspension from office.

The president’s decision to suspend Zargo is seen as a demonstration of his commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and accountability in the public sector. The Executive Mansion, in a statement by Presidential Press Secretary Kula Bonah Nyei Fofana, emphasized that this action is a reminder to all government officials of their duty to serve with dignity and care.

“This action reflects the President’s determination to ensure that public offices operate with the highest level of professionalism and accountability,” Fofana said. he said. “This is also a reminder to all government officials of their responsibility to serve with honor, diligence and respect for the rule of law.”

In addition to Zargo’s suspension, the Department of State for Presidential Affairs also suspended three high-level staffers: Lamine Sharpe, Atty. Harry B. Sando and Mohammed S. Kromah – for alleged payroll padding following an investigation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).

These dismissals were based on findings revealing misuse of public funds due to violations of government regulations. Deputy Comptroller Mr. James Y. Tolker, who was cleared of any involvement in the payroll-stuffing scheme, was reinstated.

The Department’s actions underscore its commitment to transparency, ethical governance and the protection of public resources.

These suspensions come amid ongoing efforts by the Boakai administration to instill greater integrity and professionalism within the government.