Grand Cape Mount County – On Monday, February 24, a group of youth in Grand Cape Mount County staged a peaceful protest against the appointment of Mr. Delino J. Kollie as County Health Services Administrator (CHSA).
By Jenneh Kemokai, Contributing Writer
Kollie’s appointment, influenced by Madam Martha Morris, Deputy Minister for Administration of the Ministry of Health, came after the departure of Jonah Tokpah, a well-respected administrator who served for over four years.
However, Kollie’s qualifications for the position have raised serious concerns.Despite holding a Bachelor’s degree in nursing, Kollie lacks the administrative experience required for the CHSA role.
The Ministry of Health’s guidelines for the position specify that the County Health Services Administrator should have a degree in Public Administration or a related field, along with substantial experience in health administration.
Kollie’s background, primarily in nursing and limited managerial experience running a drugstore, does not meet these standards.
The protest took place outside the County Health Team Office in Sinje Town, Garwula District, where demonstrators voiced concerns about Kollie’s qualifications.
Led by Thompson M. Kiatamba, the protesters argued that the role requires more than medical experience and called for a qualified administrator with a proven track record in health services management.
Kiatamba read a petition, stating, “The County Health Services Administrator must have the skills to manage health systems effectively, make strategic decisions, and lead a team.” He warned that the protest would continue until their concerns were addressed.
In response, Garwula District Commissioner Hon. Kandakai Kiazolu assured the protesters that their concerns would be forwarded to Grand Cape Mount County Superintendent Foley Kiatamba.
Senator Dabah Mabamde Varpilah, representing Grand Cape Mount County in the Liberian Senate, also urged the youth to remain calm and gave the Ministry of Health two days to address the issue.
Kollie’s appointment has sparked widespread debate, with many residents and political leaders, including Senator Varpilah, questioning his qualifications.
Senator Varpilah has called for a comprehensive review of Kollie’s credentials, emphasizing the need for effective leadership in managing health services, especially with important projects like the FARA project in progress.
Support Independent Journalism
Your support helps FrontPage Africa continue delivering independent, credible, and impactful journalism. Every contribution strengthens our ability to investigate, inform, and hold power accountable while keeping quality journalism accessible to our readers.
Support our journalism or subscribe to receive the latest FrontPage Africa stories and updates.
