MONROVIA – Former Assistant Minister for Information Services at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT), Matthew Nyanplu on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, raised serious concerns about Liberia’s governance framework and what he describes as systemic inefficiencies in public service. His critique on his Facebook page extends to the alleged operations of the Nekotech $25 million no-collateral loan-work-study program, questioning its legitimacy and impact on unsuspecting applicants.
In a detailed statement, Nyanplu argued that governance in Liberia suffers from a flawed power structure where presidential confidence outweighs competence. “Government or governance does not belong to any private person—not the President, not the Minister. It is the people’s work. It is public service,” Nyanplu stated. However, he emphasized that the requirement for presidential trust in appointees often excludes the most competent candidates, fostering an environment where inefficiency thrives.
Nyanplu detailed the adverse consequences of this model, including suppression of dissent, targeting of high-performing individuals, and a lack of accountability within the inner circle of power. “Inadequate people use unorthodox means to maintain their presidential confidence, suppress dissent, or feel threatened by colleagues who can question or rationalize their actions,” he noted. He criticized a culture where junior officials are sidelined or dismissed without the President ever meeting or hearing from them.
Reflecting on his own experience, Nyanplu expressed dismay at being dismissed by leaders who had never engaged with him directly. He questioned whether senior officials, often viewed as trusted advisors, are genuinely free from conflicts or corruption. “Are ‘complaining’ Ministers themselves not conflicted? Are they angels that they cannot be corrupted by presidential confidence?” he asked, highlighting the risks of unchecked power within the inner circle of governance.
In a surprising turn, Nyanplu linked his critique of governance to the Nekotech $25 million loan-work-study program, alleging deceptive practices within its operations. He revealed that applicants are required to make payments and attend webinars labeled as “prep schools,” with some receiving vouchers valued at $2,500 USD. Nyanplu shared a recording of a Nekotech webinar, urging the public to examine minutes 34.5 to 45 of the session for what he described as “the real deception spewed by the organization.”
The alleged involvement of Liberia in this program raises significant concerns, particularly given Nyanplu’s assertions about the absence of proper oversight and scrutiny in public service. He called for a closer evaluation of the program, questioning its legitimacy and the financial burden it imposes on participants.
Nyanplu’s statement underlines far-reaching issues of governance, accountability, and public trust in Liberia. His remarks serve as a call to action for greater transparency and reform in the appointment and dismissal processes within government and in the evaluation of programs involving public officials.
