Government Hailed For Suspending MoJ Assistant Director of Prison Operations

The Supreme Motorcycle Transport Union of Liberia has commended the Government of Liberia(GoL) for what it describes as a timely and decisive action taken against the Assistant Director of Prison Operations at the Ministry of Justice (MoJ), following serious allegations surrounding abuse of authority and misconduct in the discharge of official duties. In a statement issued on Monday, the leadership of the Motorcycle Union praised the Ministry of Justice and the Government for upholding the principles of accountability and the rule of law by suspending the senior prison official pending a full and impartial investigation. 

According to the Union, the suspension sends a strong signal that no public official is above the law, regardless of position or influence. The Union noted that for too long, ordinary citizens especially commercial motorcyclists have complained of harassment, intimidation, and unfair treatment by some security and corrections officers without redress. “The government’s decision to suspend the Assistant Director of Prison Operations is a step in the right direction,” the statement read. “It demonstrates commitment to justice, professionalism, and respect for the rights and dignity of all Liberians, including members of the motorcycle transport sector who are often vulnerable to abuse.” 

The Motorcycle Union further disclosed that the suspended official has been linked to an alleged operation that resulted in the unlawful detention and mistreatment of several citizens, including commercial motorcyclists, an incident that sparked public outrage and calls for accountability. Union leaders emphasized that the action taken by the Ministry of Justice has restored some level of public confidence in state institutions, particularly the corrections and justice sectors, which play a critical role in maintaining law and order. They also called on the government to ensure that the ongoing investigation is transparent, independent, and free from political interference. 

The Union stressed that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, to deter future misconduct within the prison system and other security agencies. Additionally, the Motorcycle Union urged the Ministry of Justice to institute broader reforms within the Bureau of Corrections and Rehabilitation, including human rights training, strict oversight mechanisms, and clear disciplinary procedures for officers found wanting. 

The Union concluded by reaffirming its support for the government’s anti-corruption and accountability drive, while cautioning that sustained action not isolated decisions will be required to rebuild trust between law enforcement agencies and the public. As the investigation unfolds, many Liberians will be watching closely to see whether the suspension leads to concrete outcomes that strengthen justice, professionalism, and respect for human rights across the country.

Author: Zac T. Sherman