Credible sources have hinted to the Daily Observer that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has with immediate effect suspended the Assistant Minister for International Organization Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Karishma Pelham-Raad, for gross insubordination.
“Karishma has been suspended by the President for disrespecting her boss, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti. The information is not officially out yet on the Executive Mansion website but she has been served her suspension letter,” a source said.
The letter was reportedly served this week.
While official details remain limited, the decision is widely viewed as part of the government’s effort to draw clear lines around discipline, accountability, and respect for institutional order.
For an administration that has consistently emphasized restoring credibility and strengthening governance, the suspension signals a willingness to act decisively when expectations are not met.
The Bureau of International Organization Affairs, where Karishma Pelham-Raad served, plays a critical role in coordinating Liberia’s relations with multilateral institutions such as the United Nations, African Union, and ECOWAS.
Her suspension is expected to lead to an interim reassignment of duties to ensure the continuity of Liberia’s international engagements.
Beyond the immediate administrative impact, the suspension carries symbolic weight. Analysts suggest it reflects the President’s intent to set a tone of discipline within government, reinforcing that conduct viewed as undermining order will be addressed.
At the same time, the lack of detail about next steps, whether the measure will remain temporary, lead to a permanent dismissal, or trigger further review, leaves room for speculation.
What is clear is that this episode has highlighted the administration’s balancing act: enforcing higher standards of accountability while maintaining stability across critical government functions.
