President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has challenged newly commissioned officials of government to serve with integrity, accountability, and results, warning that public service is a trust and not an entitlement. Speaking Friday, August 15, 2025 in the Parlors of the Executive Mansion at a ceremony commissioning the Chief Justice, Associate Justice, Ambassadors, and and Commissioners of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), President Boakai declared that the era of “business as usual” is over and that his Administration will measure officials by their performance and commitment to the Liberian people.
“This is your moment to rise. Your country is calling. Deliver with courage, integrity, and humility,” the President said. He added, “We will be tracking your progress and holding you accountable. Transparency and asset declaration are not optional—they are legal requirements and moral obligations.”
Addressing the Judiciary, President Boakai said the need for reform is “urgent and non-negotiable,” stressing that transparent, speedy, and fair justice is the foundation of a thriving democracy. He called on all members of the Judiciary and Legislature to declare their assets and uphold the highest ethical standards to restore public trust.
To the newly appointed Ambassadors, the President underscored their role as Liberia’s face abroad, particularly as the country begins its historic two-year term on the United Nations Security Council. “You are called ‘Excellency’ for a reason. Represent us with dignity, but also with action—attract investment, boost tourism, build partnerships, and make Liberia’s voice heard,” he said.
The President charged the LTA leadership to ensure Liberia seizes the opportunities of the digital age. “Your work must drive innovation, economic growth, and opportunities for our young people to thrive in a knowledge-based economy,” he stated, adding that technology must benefit every corner of the country. President Boakai highlighted his Administration’s zero tolerance for corruption, warning that any misuse of public resources will be met with full legal consequences. “Those found in breach of our anti-graft laws will be held fully accountable,” he warned.
The officials commissioned are:
- His Honor Yamie Gbeisay – Chief Justice
- His Honor Boakai N. Kanneh – Associate Justice
- Her Honor Victoria W. Duncan – Resident Judge, Margibi County
- Hon. John Ballout – Ambassador to Nigeria
- Amb. George S.W. Patten – Ambassador to South Africa
- Hon. Mohammed M. Dukuly – Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates
- Hon. Henry B. Fahnbulleh – Ambassador to Egypt
- Hon. Clarence K. Massaquoi – Commissioner & Chairman, LTA
- Hon. Ben A. Fofana – Commissioner, LTA
- Hon. Emmanuel J. Payegar – Commissioner, LTA
- Hon. Patrick R. Honnah – Commissioner, LTA
- Hon. Angela Cassell Bush – Commissioner, LTA
Concluding, the President repeated his signature call: “Let us together Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build Liberia.” The commissioning ceremony was attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, family members, and the media.
