Controversy Erupts as Inspector General Refuses to Accept Deputy Police Chief’s Resignation in Liberia
Monrovia, Liberia — A storm of controversy is brewing within the Liberia National Police (LNP) as Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman publicly rejected the resignation of Deputy Commissioner of Police Cecelia G. Clarke. This declaration comes amid mounting tensions related to her reassignment, sparking allegations of workplace discrimination.
During a briefing with journalists in Monrovia, Coleman confirmed that Clarke had submitted her resignation letter on February 18, just one day after her reassignment from leading the Press and Public Affairs Division to the Protocol Department. Notably, Coleman stressed that such a resignation does not automatically dissolve her ties to the police force, stating, “The Liberia National Police is a paramilitary institution governed by rules and procedures,” emphasizing the importance of formal protocols in exiting the organization.
Unraveling Transfer
Clarke’s abrupt resignation follows what she described as an “unjustified” administrative transfer, which she believes was neither transparent nor procedurally sound. In her public statements and resignation letter, she expressed concerns that her reassignment effectively stripped her of her responsibilities as the official spokesperson— a role she had held for nearly two years.
She indicated that the timing of her transfer, communicated to her late on February 17, raises doubts about the measure’s intent. Additionally, Clarke pointed to her new post in the Protocol Department, previously led by Sam Collins, alleging that this arrangement undermined her authority. She claimed that Collins had previously engaged in what she termed “parallel communications,” which had compromised her role within the police force.
Amid these tensions, Clarke took to social media to voice her frustrations, asserting, “The LNP has one spokesperson and that mandate is my office to uphold.” She appealed for an end to actions she feels undermine her position, stating, “My silence is not stupidity.”
Collins has since confirmed his appointment as the new spokesperson for the LNP. When asked about allegations of undermining Clarke, he refrained from detailed comments but acknowledged his new role.
Serious Allegations of Discrimination
In her formal resignation statement, Clarke outlined a series of grievances, including “persistent workplace discrimination, operational constraints, limited institutional support, structural barriers affecting the performance of my office, and difficulties in team collaboration.” She indicated that these cumulative challenges rendered her continued service at the LNP untenable.
“My decision to resign follows careful reflection on a range of professional and administrative challenges experienced over nearly two years,” Clarke noted in her resignation, underscoring the necessity of trust and clarity in leadership.
Known as one of the most prominent female leaders within the LNP, Clarke previously worked with the Liberia Broadcasting System and served as president of the Reporters Association of Liberia. In her role, she frequently engaged with the media on issues such as criminal investigations and public safety.
In her departure, she expressed gratitude to journalists and other partners for their collaboration while voicing hopes that LNP leadership would enhance internal systems to promote fairness, inclusion, and professionalism.
Inspector General’s Standpoint
Despite Clarke’s resignation and the allegations surrounding it, Inspector General Coleman maintained that she remains an integral member of the police force. He clarified that her transfer was not a punitive measure but rather a reassignment aimed at expanding her role within the LNP. Coleman noted, “She was transferred to the department of international relations,” emphasizing her significant contributions to the agency.
While Coleman refrained from detailing the specifics of her reassignment, he reiterated that the LNP operates under a structured command system where postings and transfers are managed by leadership. He further assured the public that the LNP is committed to transparency and accountability, particularly in light of increasing scrutiny from the community.
As this situation unfolds, it continues to draw attention, highlighting potential underlying issues within the LNP that may require further exploration and dialogue.
— Reported by Nexio News
