Monrovia – Liberia’s new Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), Benedict Y. Harleyson, has stepped into office with a powerful pledge: to lead with humility, strengthen teamwork, and build a results-focused culture that lifts every employee.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Harleyson thanked the ministry’s staff for their warm welcome and praised the Department of Administration for keeping the institution stable and efficient throughout the leadership transition.
He reflected on his journey with striking honesty and nostalgia, describing himself as “one of the babies of this ministry.”
Beginning as a cadet in 2007, he said the MFDP shaped his professional life and prepared him for this moment.
“I grew up in this ministry,” he said. “Like a child becoming a father, this institution made me who I am.”
Harleyson emphasized that while leaders may change, the mission of the ministry does not.
He urged staff, from janitors and interns to directors and administrators, to recognize their shared value.
“We are all on the same boat. Every role matters.”
He called for humility in leadership, reminding officials that authority is not personal power but a tool for public service.
He described himself as open minded, approachable, and driven by performance rather than titles, encouraging staff to offer constructive feedback and embrace challenging assignments as pathways to growth.
Harleyson also appealed to senior officials to mentor younger staff, noting that he himself benefited from guidance early in his career.
He stressed that unity and collaboration across departments will strengthen the ministry’s effectiveness and improve service delivery for the Liberian people.
Assistant Minister for Administration, Paul T. Lamin, formally handed over responsibilities, congratulating Harleyson and reaffirming the department’s commitment to supporting the ministry’s mission.
He presented the second quarter report and official turnover documents to ensure a smooth transition.
Representing Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Chief of Staff Philajua Boima praised Harleyson’s integrity and experience, saying his appointment reflects President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s confidence in his leadership.
He urged staff to give their full cooperation.
Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning Tenneh G. Brunson described MFDP as a “family home” where teamwork and continuous learning strengthen leadership.
She expressed confidence that Harleyson’s leadership will further enrich the ministry’s culture.
Deputy Minister Benedict Y. Harleyson succeeds Bill McGill Jones, now Deputy Minister of State for Administration at the Executive Mansion.
