MONROVIA – The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) has concluded its investigation into the death of 28-year-old nurse Jamesetta Kugmeh, determining that her death was caused by kidney failure and internal complications, and clearing hospitals of allegations of medical negligence and organ removal. Kugmeh died on May 20, 2025, at John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia, following a complicated medical journey that stirred national attention and public outcry.
Dr. Benetta Collins Andrews, Chairperson of the LMDC, announced the findings after a comprehensive inquiry by the Council’s Ethics and Grievance Committee. The investigation involved a review of medical records and consultations with staff at JFK Medical Center and Ghana Teaching Hospital, where Kugmeh received specialized treatment. According to Dr. Andrews, the investigation found no evidence that Kugmeh’s kidney was surgically removed, contrary to earlier public claims.
The LMDC presented the investigation’s results in the presence of Kugmeh’s family and representatives from ELWA Hospital, where Kugmeh initially sought care. The report aims to clarify public confusion that followed accusations against ELWA Hospital, which was alleged to have committed medical negligence during an emergency cesarean section.
Kugmeh’s medical ordeal began in late February 2025. She was admitted to ELWA Hospital for a scheduled antenatal care appointment and was informed that she was past her due date. After initially resisting labor induction, Kugmeh agreed, but after hours of labor with no progress, she consented to an emergency cesarean section on February 25. Following the surgery, she experienced severe complications, which she publicly detailed on social media. Kugmeh described how the surgery led to kidney failure, liver damage, and the removal of her womb. She also reported undergoing eight dialysis sessions, suffering burns on her legs and back, and having a collapsed urethra.
Her story captured national attention and led to protests and calls for accountability. Kugmeh was later transferred to JFK Medical Center and eventually flown to Ghana for further treatment. Despite extensive care, she passed away in May.
Civil society activist Martin Kollie was among those who campaigned for Kugmeh’s transfer abroad and demanded government intervention, highlighting systemic issues in Liberia’s healthcare system.
ELWA Hospital’s Administrator, Rev. James Freeman Garway, expressed condolences to Kugmeh’s family and stated that the hospital cooperated fully with the LMDC investigation. While acknowledging the seriousness of the claims, Rev. Garway cited patient confidentiality as a reason for limited public comment on the specifics of the case.
Dr. Benetta Collins Andrews urged the public to trust the medical investigation’s findings and emphasized the need for improved patient safety and transparency in healthcare. She called on medical institutions to enhance standards and foster accountability to restore public confidence.
For Kugmeh’s family and supporters, the findings may be met with skepticism and may not fully resolve lingering questions. The investigation underscores the urgent need to strengthen Liberia’s maternal health services to prevent such heartbreaking outcomes in the future.
As Kugmeh’s family and friends grapple with this profoundly painful loss, calls for comprehensive medical reforms and stronger regulatory oversight are intensifying. The LMDC’s report represents a crucial step toward justice and the advancement of healthcare standards, emphasizing the vital role of thorough, fact-based investigations in addressing and resolving public health crises.
