Monrovia, Liberia — The Director General of Liberia’s Civil Service Agency (CSA), Dr. Josiah F. Joekai Jr., is under mounting public pressure following his participation in a political rally organized by Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah in support of President Joseph Boakai’s anticipated 2029 re-election campaign.
The event, held on Sunday in Monrovia under the banner of the National Independent Movement for Boakai (NIMBO), drew large crowds and featured President Boakai alongside senior government officials. Videos circulating on social media showed Dr. Joekai wearing NIMBO-branded attire and dancing during the rally, sparking accusations that he breached Liberia’s Code of Conduct, which requires civil servants to remain politically neutral.
Criticism from Lawmakers and Clergy
Senator Amara Konneh of Gbarpolu County condemned Joekai’s actions, warning that partisan involvement by civil servants undermines the integrity of public institutions. Konneh cited past dismissals of government employees under previous administrations for similar violations, arguing that Liberia risks perpetuating a cycle of politically motivated firings whenever power changes hands.
Bong County Representative Marvin Cole went further, calling for Joekai’s immediate dismissal. “He has desecrated the civil service,” Cole declared, accusing the CSA chief of hypocrisy for previously removing employees accused of partisan activity. “Mr. President, if you did not see it, may God open your eyes,” he added, urging President Boakai to act.
Former Liberia Council of Churches President Bishop Kortu Brown also joined the chorus of critics, insisting that Joekai must resign if he violated the same rules he enforced against others. “The Civil Service Agency must be above politics,” Brown said, urging an investigation to restore public confidence.
Joekai’s Response
In a Facebook post responding to Senator Konneh, Dr. Joekai defended his attendance, arguing that the Code of Conduct does not apply to him as head of the CSA but rather to other civil service employees. He explained that the rally was organized by a close friend, and he felt obliged to attend and “grace the occasion.” Joekai did not directly address the criticism over wearing NIMBO-branded attire but maintained that his presence was personal rather than partisan.
Broader Debate on Civil Service Neutrality
The controversy has reignited debate over political neutrality in Liberia’s civil service. Part Five of the country’s Code of Conduct prohibits presidential appointees from engaging in political activities, canvassing, or using government resources for partisan purposes. Critics argue that consistent enforcement of these rules is essential to prevent political victimization and safeguard democratic institutions.
As of press time, Dr. Joekai has not issued further public statements beyond his Facebook response.
