Liberia’s Lower House of Parliament Initiates Investigation into Scandal Surrounding Unexplained Transfers of Doctors by Health Authorities

Capitol Hill, Monrovia: The House of Representatives has initiated what is expected to be a thorough investigation surrounding allegations that authorities of the Ministry of Health are transferring specialized medical practitioners from essential facilities across the country for unexplained reasons.

The Lower House launched the inquiry stemming from a formal complaint from Representative Clarence Banks of Grand Bassa County District #2.

In his communication to plenary, Representative Bank was alarmed over what he described as a "troubling pattern" of unexplained reassignment of medical personnel from key government hospitals in rural parts of the country.

Representative Banks made reference to the 2024 transfer of Dr. Moses Wheidaigar from the only referral hospital in Grand Bassa County to Lofa County.

The lawmaker also highlighted a February 2025 attempt by the Ministry of Health to appoint an unqualified nurse, Mr. Delino Kollie, as Health Services Administrator in Grand Cape Mount County.

And in response to Representative Banks’ request, the plenary of the House of Representatives has mandated the Committee on Health to investigate the matter.

In this regard, Health Minister Dr. Louise Kpoto and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Catherine Cooper have been summoned to appear before the committee for questioning.

The House Plenary is demanding clarity on the motives behind these transfers and whether or not such actions align with Liberia’s health priorities and professional staffing standards.

Findings from the investigation will guide legislative oversight and could prompt reforms aimed at ensuring a fair and balanced distribution of medical professionals across the counties.