FreedomNews:
By Benjamin Q Johnson
Monrovia Liberia – In a dramatic turn of events, Matthew Nyanplu, the Assistant Minister for Information Services at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism, has resigned his post, citing his suspension and the government’s handling of a controversial “work-study” program promoted by Liberia’s Foreign Minister. The resignation, which took effect immediately, was made public in a letter addressed to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on November 17, 2024. Nyanplu, who had served under President Boakai’s administration, expressed deep regret over his suspension and alleged unfair treatment following his outspoken criticism of the program. The controversy centers on the “work-study-loan” initiative, which was recently announced by Foreign Minister Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah, Sr., as a partnership involving NEKOTECH, a foreign organization, purportedly offering Liberians an opportunity to study and work in the United States.
In his resignation letter, Nyanplu claimed that the program, which was marketed as a government-backed initiative, had raised significant concerns due to discrepancies and deceptive practices surrounding it. According to Nyanplu, the program was charging participants at least $236 for preparatory services, despite previous assurances from government officials that the program was free and funded by the government. Nyanplu voiced particular concern over the “misleading” nature of the program. “NEKOTECH is charging students to pay for services they claim will help them secure admissions to U.S. graduate schools and work-study opportunities,” he wrote.
However, it has now emerged that these students will be left to shoulder the full financial burden themselves, contrary to earlier assurances that the Liberian government would cover the costs.” The controversy surrounding the program has sparked a public outcry, with critics alleging that the initiative amounts to exploitation and misinformation. Nyanplu, who referred to the scheme as a “scam,” condemned the Foreign Minister for promoting the program despite evidence that it was misleading and potentially harmful to the country’s reputation.
He further accused powerful figures within the government of suppressing dissenting views and attempting to silence those who spoke out against the program. In his letter, Nyanplu elaborated on his decision to publicly expose the alleged scam, invoking his legal rights under the Whistleblower Protection Law of Liberia, which protects public officials who disclose information in the public interest. “I could not, in good conscience, stand by while Liberians were being misled into a program that offers none of the benefits it promises,” Nyanplu wrote.
The former assistant minister revealed that despite efforts to engage with Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah and other officials within the government, the issue was not addressed publicly. “While there was acknowledgment of the facts in private, there was a collective unwillingness to publicly correct the misinformation,” he said. “I believe the Foreign Minister is either attempting to save face or has vested interests in promoting the program.”Nyanplu’s resignation letter highlights his moral and professional obligation to act in the public interest. He expressed his disillusionment with the government’s handling of the matter and stated that his decision to resign was necessary due to his conscience and commitment to the truth. “I remain faithful to the country and to the people,” he concluded, “and by God’s grace, our country will be better one day.”The resignation comes at a time when the government is facing increased scrutiny over its handling of public programs and the transparency of its foreign partnerships.
The controversy surrounding the “work-study” program is likely to fuel further debate about the government’s commitment to protecting the interests of Liberians and ensuring accountability within its ranks. As of now, there has been no official response from the Presidency or the Ministry of Information regarding Nyanplu’s resignation. However, his departure raises questions about the ongoing power struggles within the administration and the future of the controversial program. Liberians, particularly those interested in studying abroad, continue to voice concerns over the legitimacy of the program, with many urging the government to clarify its position and ensure that citizens are not taken advantage of.
Letter below
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