The partisans argue that these officials’ dual roles in government and the party violate Liberia’s Code of Conduct.
Monrovia—Partisans of the ruling Unity Party (UP) have launched a campaign calling for the resignation of the party’s chairman, Rev. Luther Tarpeh, along with other party officials holding appointed government positions.
By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr (+231886458910) | [email protected]
The partisans argue that these officials’ dual roles in government and the party violate Liberia’s Code of Conduct.
The controversy stems from the Liberian Code of Conduct, Section 5.8, which explicitly prohibits any civil servant from using their official authority to influence elections or political outcomes. It also forbids government employees from engaging in active political management or campaigning while holding public office.
The Unity Party partisans claim that Chairman Tarpeh and other party officials in government are in clear violation of this law. They demand that these officials either step down from their government posts or relinquish their active roles within the party.
Speaking to the media in Monrovia, Daniel B. Johnson, head of the Unity Party Concern Partisans, acknowledged Rev. Tarpeh’s efforts in speaking out against corruption and abuses of office within the party.
However, Johnson called on the chairman to resign as Board Chairman of the Freeport of Monrovia to avoid conflicts of interest while serving as the party’s head.
“We encourage him to forge a new chapter, ensuring true independence and objectivity in his voice. Therefore, we call on Chairman Tarpeh of the great Unity Party to resign as Board Chair of the NPA,” said Mr. Johnson.
He argued that Tarpeh’s resignation would allow him to focus fully on his party advocacy without compromising his position.
Additionally, Mr. Johnson also called on other Unity Party officials holding government appointments to step down, emphasizing that this move is not symbolic but rather a necessary adherence to the Code of Conduct that the government is sworn to uphold.
“This is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is a fulfillment of the Code of Conduct, which this government took an oath to uphold,” Mr. Johnson said.
Mr. Johnson urged Chairman Tarpeh to dedicate himself to the party full-time, engaging with partisans and addressing their concerns.
“He must step down as Board Chairman at the Port. He cannot serve in an appointed position in government and, at the same time, be the party chairman—it’s a violation of the Code of Conduct,” Mr. Johnson added.
The Unity Party partisans argue that for Tarpeh to freely speak out against government officials who are also party members, he must first resign from his government role.
“Our people are hungry, angry, and suffering, and it is the responsibility of the Unity Party-led government to bring solace to the partisans who remain the backbone of this Rescue Mission,” He stated.
He lamented that grassroots partisans, who worked tirelessly to secure the party’s victory, have been left behind in favor of well-connected individuals who now occupy lucrative positions.
Mr. Johnson and his colleagues criticized UP officials, including Chairman Tarpeh, for allegedly placing personal interests above the party’s welfare.
“It is even more disgusting that these officials are giving well-paid jobs to unqualified girlfriends, boyfriends, family members, and friends while deserving and qualified partisans are left to rot in poverty and hopelessness,” He stated.
The UP partisans vow to continue their campaign until the party leadership complies with the Code of Conduct and ensures fairness in addressing the grievances of its grassroots members.
