Gbarnga, Bong County — The Communications Director of the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI), Papa Morris, has strongly dismissed allegations suggesting that the recent dismissal of Obe Smith, the former Deputy Director of Communications, was politically motivated.
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
Smith, along with others, had speculated that his termination was driven by political pressures, but Morris has rejected these claims as baseless.
In a statement, Morris emphasized that CARI operates as a professional institution and is not a “puppet administration” subject to political interference.
He stressed that the organization’s mission to advance Liberia’s agricultural sector remains its top priority, and personnel decisions are made based on merit and professionalism.
Specifically, Morris addressed allegations that the dismissal was influenced by two senators from Bong County, Prince Kermue Moye and Johnny K. Kpehe.
He firmly stated that CARI’s leadership, under the guidance of its Director General, would never allow political interference in the institution’s operations.
Morris referred to Smith’s claims as “extremely elementary, illogical, and unthinkable,” and called on Smith to take responsibility for his actions.
He pointed out that Smith had received four warning letters since 2021, suggesting that his termination was a result of his conduct, rather than any political agenda.
Moreover, Morris explained that according to the Decent Work Act and the Civil Service Standing Rules, two warning letters are grounds for dismissal.
He reiterated that Smith’s termination followed established professional procedures.
Morris urged the public to disregard Smith’s allegations and called on him to refrain from making unfounded accusations against CARI’s administration. He emphasized that Smith’s suspension was strictly for “administrative reasons.”
Morris made these clarifications during his appearance as a special guest on the January 24, 2025 edition of “The Premium Morning Ride.”
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