Monrovia—A leaked check obtained by FrontPage Africa has revealed that the acting management of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) disbursed on August 16, 2024 a sum of $25,000 to former Commissioner James Gbarwea, who resigned while under suspension.
By Selma Lomax, [email protected]
James Gbarwea, along with other Commissioners of the LTA, was suspended by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai earlier this year. The suspension affected a five-member board that included Edwina Zackpah (Chairperson), Israel Akinsanya, Zotawon Titus, Osborne Diggs, and Gbarwea, all of whom were appointed by former President George M. Weah.
The suspension came two months into President Boakai’s tenure, sparking controversy as it was seen as a violation of the tenure law. In response, the suspended commissioners sought intervention from the Supreme Court, which ruled in their favor. President Boakai initially praised the ruling and assured the public that his administration would abide by the court’s decision.
However, in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling, former LTA Commissioners James Gbarwea and Osborne Diggs submitted their resignations. President Boakai subsequently accepted these resignations, and expressed his gratitude to them for their service to their country.
In separate letters, the former commissioners thanked the President for his leadership and pledged their continued commitment to the country’s progress. They also assured that they would not obstruct the President’s constitutional authority in any way and would maintain the highest standards of integrity and cooperation.
The situation has now taken an unexpected turn as FrontPage Africa has obtained a leaked check showing a $25,000 payment from the acting LTA management to James Gbarwea. This revelation has fueled speculation that Gbarwea may have been coerced into resigning, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding his departure.
As this development unfolds, the public awaits further clarification from both the LTA and the government regarding the nature of the payment and its implications for the integrity of the LTA’s leadership transition.
FrontPageAfrica wrote a letter to Acting Chairperson of the Board of Commissioner of the LTA Abdullah Kamara, requesting inquiry about the disbursement of the $25,000. But Kamara promised to consult a fellow Board of Commissioner before responding. He also asked FPA to deliver its inquiry in hard copy to his office on Monday.
Said Kamara: “Thanks. But kindly send a hard copy to the office tomorrow morning. Meanwhile, I’ve just read you’re requesting a response Tonight which in my view is a tight timeframe considering the nature of our organization requires consultation with other board members on certain matters. Nonetheless, I’ll consult with my colleagues and revert later today. Thanks.”
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