President Boakai Suspends Deputy Youth Minister McGill Over Rape Allegations

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has suspended the Deputy Minister for Youth Development at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. J. Bryant McGill, following allegations that he was involved in the rape of a minor.

Min. McGill was recently accused for sexually abusing the daughter of an employee of the ministry .The Executive Mansion announced the decision Tuesday, stressing that it aligns with the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Officials say the suspension is intended to ensure an impartial and transparent investigation.

“Deputy Minister McGill will remain suspended until the conclusion of the investigation,” the statement read in part.The allegations against McGill have triggered widespread public outcry, with civil society groups, rights advocates, and citizens calling for swift justice.President Boakai’s suspension of McGill comes at a time when his administration is under increasing pressure to demonstrate a stronger stance against SGBV. 

In recent years, Liberia has faced criticism from rights defenders who argue that perpetrators of rape and sexual assault too often evade accountability due to weak enforcement of existing laws.Observers say the outcome of this case could become a major test of the Boakai administration’s commitment to strengthening justice and protecting vulnerable groups in the country.

Author: Cooper K Sangar Jr