SUAKOKO, Bong County – Residents of Suakoko District and surrounding communities have expressed serious concern following the reported dismissal of the Medical Director at Phebe Hospital, calling on the Government of Liberia to provide immediate clarification and intervention to ensure the stability of the health facility.
The dismissal has sparked a wave of uncertainty among both staff and patients at the hospital, which serves as a critical referral center for central Liberia. Community leaders and residents gathered over the weekend, describing the timing of the decision as “unfortunate” given the ongoing challenges facing the healthcare sector in the region.
Residents Voice Concerns
Speaking to local reporters, several residents emphasized that the outgoing director had made significant strides in improving service delivery despite limited resources. They expressed fears that a sudden change in leadership without a clear transition plan could disrupt essential medical services.
“Phebe Hospital is the lifeblood of our community’s health,” one resident noted. “We are asking the Ministry of Health to explain the reasons for this dismissal and to ensure that politics does not interfere with the management of our hospital.”
Demand for Government Intervention
The residents are specifically calling on the central government to:
- Provide Transparency: Issue an official statement regarding the grounds for the dismissal.
- Ensure Continuity: Guarantee that medical supplies and staff salaries remain unaffected during the leadership transition.
- Prioritize Local Input: Engage with community stakeholders to ensure the next appointment reflects the needs of the Suakoko population.
About Phebe Hospital
Phebe Hospital remains one of Liberia’s most vital health institutions, catering to thousands of citizens in Bong, Nimba, and Lofa counties. The facility has historically struggled with funding gaps and supply shortages, making consistent leadership a top priority for local advocates.
At the time of this report, the Ministry of Health has not yet released an official statement regarding the replacement or the specific administrative reasons behind the director’s removal.