-President Boakai Appoints Acting NaFAA DG and LIS Commissioner Gener Amid Suspensions
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By Jerromie S. Walters
Over the weekend, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., announced a series of new appointments affecting key government institutions, including the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), the Liberia Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (LAAIB), and the Ministry of Justice (MOJ). These appointments have sparked speculation about the future of suspended officials Emma Glassco and Stephen Zargo, who remain under investigation.
The newly appointed officials include: Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC): Mr. Mohammed M. Sheriff, Managing Director, National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA): Mr. J. Cyrus Saygbe, Sr., Acting Director General, Liberia Immigration Service (LIS): Mr. Elijah F. Rufus, Commissioner General, and Liberia Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (LAAIB): Mr. Abner W. Yonly
At the Ministry of Justice (MOJ), President Boakai nominated several county attorneys: Cllr. John D. Miah – Nimba County, Atty. Frank S. Suku, Sr. – Sinoe County, Cllr. Gabriel G. Wleh – Grand Kru County, Cllr. J. Luther Sumo – Lofa County, Cllr. Pato Jarba – Bomi County, Cllr. Nyonkpao R.G. Daye – Grand Cape Mount County, Cllr. Arthur M.S. Washington – Gbarpolu County, and Cllr. Joshua G.K. Odoi – Maryland County
Suspensions of Glassco and Zargo Raise Questions
The appointments come amid ongoing investigations into the suspensions of the twk officials: Madam Emma Glassco, former Director General of NaFAA, and Mr. Stephen Zargo, former Commissioner General of LIS. Glassco was suspended on February 13, 2025, while Zargo was suspended earlier, with both officials awaiting the outcome of investigations into their respective tenures. Neither has been formally dismissed, leaving their futures uncertain.
The appointment of acting heads for both NaFAA and LIS has fueled speculation that President Boakai may be preparing to permanently replace Glassco and Zargo. Madam Emma Glassco’s tenure at NaFAA was marked by significant achievements, including securing millions in international funding, implementing transformative projects, and elevating Liberia’s profile in global fisheries governance.
