The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has invited the Acting Director General of the Bureau of State Enterprises (BSE), Varlee F. Sanor, for questioning over alleged financial improprieties, the Heritage Newspaper has learned. This latest development comes just weeks after President Joseph N. Boakai suspended BSE Director General Arthur Massaquoi following reports of corruption, mismanagement, and administrative malpractice.
The President noted at the time that his decision was intended to protect the integrity of the LACC’s investigation into Massaquoi’s alleged dealings. But now, a fresh storm has erupted around Massaquoi’s deputy and replacement, Acting DG Sanor, who has been accused of breaching presidential directives and engaging in questionable transactions since assuming office.
A whistleblower, in a strongly worded August 26, 2025 communication to the President, accused Sanor of awarding contracts illegally, engaging in nepotism, and colluding with the Civil Service Agency (CSA) to irregularly process employment documents for individuals of personal interest.
Among the allegations, Sanor is said to have awarded a consultancy deal to Everest Company, a firm reportedly blacklisted by the Internal Audit Agency (IAA). He is also accused of paying USD 2,100 for a 14-day SUV rental from a relative’s car business, raising fresh questions about conflicts of interest and abuse of authority.
President Boakai, who rode to power promising transparency and accountability, is facing increasing pressure to demonstrate impartiality in his anti-corruption crusade. Critics argue that while some suspended officials remain in prolonged investigative limbo, others such as former LTA Acting Chairman Abdullah Kamara had their cases resolved swiftly.
This perceived inconsistency, they say, is undermining the credibility of the President’s much-publicized “integrity first” agenda. Already, suspensions have swept across key offices, affecting senior figures including Arthur Massaquoi, Patrick Worzie, and Rustolyn Suacoco Dennis.
Citizens and civil society voices are calling for the President to move swiftly against Sanor, warning that hesitation could reinforce perceptions of selective justice. “The fight against corruption must be equal and impartial. If Sanor remains untouched while others are held, the President risks being viewed as shielding allies,” one concerned activist told Heritage Newspaper.
For the LACC, the Sanor case presents a defining moment. Already criticized for delays in prosecuting high-profile corruption cases, the Commission faces the task of proving that no individual whether suspended, acting, or confirmed is above the law.
Observers say how the LACC handles this investigation could either restore or further erode public confidence. Analysts warn that the unfolding situation at the BSE may also affect investor confidence. The Bureau plays a critical role in overseeing state-owned enterprises, many of which manage strategic national assets. Prolonged leadership instability and corruption allegations could derail reform efforts and tarnish Liberia’s international image.
As Sanor prepares to face LACC investigators, questions remain about whether President Boakai will take immediate executive action or await the outcome of the probe. Either way, his response is likely to set the tone for the remainder of his administration’s fight against corruption whether as a bold reformist or a leader perceived as hesitant and selective.
