The Pro Unity Party group called Rescue Fighters is defending the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Sylvester Grigsby, amidst circulating social media posts and WhatsApp chatroom discussions regarding a planned protest against him.
The Rescue Fighters expressed concern over the alleged protest, which is reportedly scheduled to coincide with President Joseph Boakai’s return from any of his regular travels as they claimed that the protesters are accusing Minister Grigsby of corruption and misapplication of state resources, demanding his resignation.
Minister Grigsby’s role encompasses coordinating the activities and operations of the Office of the President, advising the President and as well ensuring the smooth execution of executive functions through close consultation with the cabinet, key agencies, private sector, and civil society groups.
In a release, the Rescue Fighters, through their National Chairperson, Chris Mulbah, dismissed calls for Grigsby’s resignation as mere political pressure intended to undermine the Minister’s authority and interfere with the Ministry’s operations.
Mulbah pointed out that the recent pressure on Minister Grigsby stems from his procurement of five Land Cruiser SUVs from the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP) to accommodate foreign guests for the January inauguration.
Ambassador Mulbah defended the procurement, stating that the vehicles were urgently needed and that Minister Grigsby’s proactive approach ensured the state’s readiness to host foreign dignitaries.
He emphasized that the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, under Grigsby’s leadership, is committed to reimbursing NASSCORP for the vehicles, demonstrating accountability and fiscal responsibility.
Critics, particularly members of the Legislature, have raised concerns about the procurement process.
However, the Rescue Fighters clarified that Minister Grigsby’s actions were administrative and within legal bounds, given the urgent and critical nature of the request. They argued that allegations of impropriety are unfounded and politically motivated stressing that Minister Grigsby’s actions were transparent and made in good faith to support the administrative needs of the highest office in the Republic.
They pro government group argued that forcing his resignation on these grounds would be unjust and could set a dangerous precedent, discouraging government officials from fulfilling their duties due to fear of public misinterpretation and politicization.
The Rescue Fighters noted that financial engagements with NASSCORP are precedence and can be addressed through refunds under the domestic debt allocation, ensuring a balanced and accountable approach to public funds use.
The Rescue Fighters said it stands firmly in support of Minister Grigsby, advocating for recognition of his efforts and transparency in his administrative actions.
