The Liberia National Police Inspector General-designate, Gregory Coleman, over the weekend, submitted a sealed copy of his drug test to the Senate Committee on Defense, Security, and Intelligence.
Delivering his State of the Nation Address (SONA) recently, President Joseph Boakai declared drugs and other narcotic substances as a national health emergency.
The Liberian leader promised to take the lead, along with his Vice president, Jeremiah Koung, to publicly do their drugs test, calling on lawmakers and other public officials to follow suit.
However, Coleman remains the only Presidential nominee to have submitted his drugs tests results to members of the Liberian Senate.
Facing the Senate’s committee on Defense, Security, and Intelligence during his confirmation hearing, the LNP IG-designate also outlined his vision for the police, ranging from service and integrity, to partnership and leadership.
Coleman, recounting his 17 years in the security sector, noted that these pillars focus on a people-first mentality, with a slogan “What is suitable for Liberians, good for the Police.”
He also stressed that transparency, accountability, and trust will be the cornerstones of the work of the police moving forward, as well as ensuring the dignity of the LNP is restored.
Coleman maintained, “I am committed to improving the way we communicate with the community, ensuring that our actions are understandable and justifiable.”
“We will be open about our policies, procedures, and decision-making processes because I am aware that trust cannot be demanded; it must be earned,” he emphasized.
The Police IG-designate however narrated that it can only be achieved if the police work tirelessly to strengthen their relationships with the community and dialogue engagement.
“I encourage you to share your concerns, suggestions, and ideas. Together, we will develop innovative approaches to policing that address the unique needs of our community.
Also, we will create a culture of excellence, respect, and justice for all Liberians, despites one’s political or religious affiliations. We will so invest in capacity building training for our officers,” he said.
Coleman also mentioned, “I will hold our officers accountable for their actions, and I expect nothing less than the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”
He at the same time called on the Senators and citizenry to join him on a journey towards a brighter future for the police force and the community they serve.
Coleman also pleaded with the Senators for the necessary budgetary support as a means of strengthening and ensuring the effectiveness of the force.
According to him, there is nothing more important than the Liberian people, which he stressed will be central to every decision that his leadership will render.
He added, “So, I will do everything in my power to justify the trust placed in me and to earn the trust of this Committee, the Legislature, and the Liberian people.”
“Because the LNP I will be inheriting, if confirmed, has faced its own share of criticism and mistrust, and this is something I and my team will address head-on,” Coleman added.
