By: Andrew B Weah
IPNEWS: Unity Party National Chairman Rev. Luther Tarpeh has called on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. to undertake an immediate cabinet reshuffle, arguing that underperforming government officials should be replaced to improve accountability, efficiency, and service delivery across government.
Speaking at a major news conference over the weekend at the Unity Party Headquarters in Monrovia, Rev. Tarpeh said the administration is approaching the midpoint of its six-year term and that the time has come for a comprehensive review of officials serving in key government positions.
“As we march majestically toward the end of the first half of our administration, we are calling on Mr. President to reshuffle the cabinet. This is long overdue,” Tarpeh declared.
The Unity Party chairman disclosed that the ruling party has identified several government officials whom it believes have failed to meet public expectations and intends to submit recommendations to President Boakai.
“There are some members of our government who are not performing well. We have a list ready to submit to Mr. President. We want to see some ministers replaced immediately. We want to see some directors replaced. The nation must thrive, and we cannot allow non-performing officials to hinder the government’s progress,” he stated.
Tarpeh’s comments come amid increasing calls from within the ruling establishment for stronger performance management mechanisms and greater accountability among public officials. Political observers believe the remarks could intensify scrutiny of cabinet ministers and heads of government agencies as the administration moves deeper into its tenure.
Defends Government’s Anti-Drug Campaign
Beyond the call for a cabinet shake-up, the Unity Party chairman strongly defended the Boakai administration’s efforts to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse, describing the government’s anti-drug campaign as one of its most significant achievements.
Tarpeh recalled that during the 2023 election campaign, the Unity Party pledged to confront what it described as a growing drug crisis inherited from the previous administration.
“When we crisscrossed the country, we were firm and determined to fight the widespread drug pandemic witnessed on the watch of the previous government,” he said.
According to him, President Boakai assembled a team committed to tackling drug-related activities and dismantling criminal networks operating across the country.
“Today, we can all attest to the fact that we have witnessed significant reductions in the ghettoization of our country. As the ruling party, we are proud of the progress made thus far,” Tarpeh noted.
Calls for Speedy Conclusion of Drug Investigation
Addressing the recent seizure of narcotics reportedly valued at approximately US$19 million at Roberts International Airport, Tarpeh praised the work of Liberia’s security institutions while demanding a swift conclusion to ongoing investigations.
He described the interception as evidence that Liberia’s security systems are becoming more effective and coordinated.
“The successful seizure of these narcotics demonstrates that our security institutions are becoming more vigilant, coordinated, and effective. This interception is evidence that our systems are working,” he said.
Tarpeh commended the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), the Liberia Airport Authority, Joint Security personnel, and international partners involved in uncovering the alleged trafficking operation.
However, he expressed frustration over the pace of the investigation and urged security agencies to accelerate their work.
“We want to call on the joint national security agencies to expedite the investigative process. We are tired of waiting for the investigation to be completed. Any further delay will make the public misconstrue your professional investigative ability,” he asserted.
“The Liberian people demand answers right now and not later. Anyone whose hand is caught in the cookie jar must face the full weight of the law.”
‘No Sacred Cows’
The Unity Party chairman emphasized that no individual should be shielded from prosecution if found connected to the drug trafficking case, regardless of political status, social standing, or influence.
“Everyone connected to this matter, regardless of status, political affiliation, or financial influence, will face the full weight of the law if found culpable. There will be no sacred cows,” he declared.
Tarpeh also reassured Liberia’s international partners of the government’s commitment to combating transnational organized crime, narcotics trafficking, and money laundering.
He warned that drug cartels and criminal networks should not underestimate the administration’s resolve.
“The recent drug bust worth nearly US$20 million is a testament that the fight to liberate Liberia from drug invasion is not yet over. We know these cartels will test the resolve of the Unity Party-led government, but we will leave no stone unturned,” he said.
“Anyone, no matter the status, position, or influence, who seeks to undermine Liberia’s progress and reputation will face justice.”
As public attention remains fixed on the high-profile drug case, Tarpeh maintained that the government must ensure transparency, accountability, and timely justice, warning that prolonged delays could erode public confidence in the country’s law enforcement institutions.
