IPNEWS: Since his recall by the President, Alioune Kebé, a Senegalese national and former Liberian Ambassador for Sports and Youth Development, has drawn criticism for alleged disrespect and abuse of his former diplomatic position, with many Liberians calling his actions and statements insulting.
Accusations of Disrespect and Exploitation
In an exclusive interview, Abraham Massalay, Assistant Coach of Kebé’s unregistered sports academy, revealed why he resigned and distanced himself from all activities related to Kebé. According to Massalay, Kebé referred to Liberians as “imbéciles” (French for “foolish” or “stupid”) in front of his Senegalese associates.
Massalay, a former Liberian footballer from Lofa County, described the behavior as unacceptable and unbecoming of someone who once held an ambassadorial role. He further alleged that during his three months working with Kebé, he was never paid and witnessed Kebé prioritizing Senegalese nationals in his activities under false pretenses, claiming they were professionals from Europe when they were, in fact, amateur athletes from Senegal.
Alleged Abuse of Diplomatic Privileges
Massalay also accused Kebé of continuing to misuse diplomatic privileges, claiming that Kebé still uses diplomatic passports and his former title to extort money from foreign nationals, particularly the French. He alleged that Kebé recently facilitated the illegal entry of French nationals involved in mining activities in Liberia’s southeastern region.
Massalay urged President Joseph Boakai and all Liberians to remain vigilant about Kebé’s actions. He described the former ambassador as unfit to lead or contribute to sports development in Liberia, accusing him of exploiting his association with the presidency for personal gain rather than advancing the nation’s interests.
“Kebé lacks the ideas, connections, and integrity needed for such a role. Liberia needs capable and well-connected Liberians who genuinely care about the country’s future, not self-serving foreign appointees,” Massalay stated.
Failed Attempts to Contact Kebé
Efforts by this paper to contact Alioune Kebé for a response to these allegations proved futile. Calls and text messages were not answered or returned.
This story raises serious concerns about the misuse of public office and the need for accountability in Liberia’s sports and youth development sector.
