Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) on October 5 suspended a senior staff of the institute, Dr. Ralph Jetoh, Director, Division of Infectious Disease & Epidemiology (DIDE).
In a communication to Dr. Jetoh, Dr. Nyan noted that he had followed a series of ongoing concerns and documented feedback from the Africa CDC, the World Health Organization (WHO), and Senior Management of the NPHIL that the NPHIL’s Division of Infectious Disease and Epidemiology continued to circulate inaccurate and substandard epidemiological data.
Nyan also told Jetoh in the suspension letter that despite multiple technical suggestions, recommendations, and hands-on efforts made to correct and improve the quality of the Epi-Bulletins and Situation Reports, there was no significant improvement.
“This situation undermines the credibility and effectiveness of NPHIL’s work. In addition, it reflects bad on our collaborating partners and the image of the country,” the NPHIL said.
“As such, in accordance with NPHIL’s policies and standards of accountability and excellence, you are hereby suspended from duty without pay for a period of one (1) month, effective, October 7, 2024,” the letter announced.
“During this suspension,” Dr. Nyan warned Dr. Jetoh, “you are expected to reflect on the gravity of the situation and take necessary steps to ensure that these issues are fully addressed upon your return.
“We trust that you will prioritize the improvement of data accuracy and reliability moving forward to prevent further actions. Should you have any questions or require clarification, please contact the Division of Human Resources.”