By Precious D. Freeman
Liberian human rights activist Titus B. Pakalah has denounced the nomination of the Ambassador-Designate to the United States, Al-Hassan Conteh describing it as “a downright international embarrassment.”
Mr. Pakalah asserts that Dr. Conteh’s appointment sends a troubling message about the current administration’s commitment to addressing institutional failures.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Mr. Pakalah urged President Joseph Boakai to immediately withdraw Dr. Conteh’s nomination, citing his alleged inaction in response to multiple incidents of sexual abuse against a minor on grounds of the Liberian embassy in Abuja, Nigeria, between September 2020 and April 2021.
Mr. Pakalah stated that during these incidents, the seven-year-old daughter of Nat Bayjay, who was Liberia’s Minister Counselor for Press and Public Affairs at the time, was repeatedly assaulted.
He recounted how he contacted the child’s family to verify the events and attempted to reach Dr. Conteh to discuss his handling of the situation.
Mr. Pakalah contends that Dr. Conteh failed to pursue justice or adequate support for the victim, alleging that the Ambassador used his influence with former government officials to shield those involved.
“Ambassador Conteh’s nomination to serve as Liberia’s Ambassador to the United States of America is a stark signal that President Boakai’s ‘Rescue Mission’ may be unwilling to confront deep-seated issues within institutions,” Mr. Pakalah said.
He added, “This nomination repeats the pattern of overlooking incompetence in addressing grave matters, like those involving the safety of minors.”
Dr. Conteh is among several newly nominated ambassadors for foreign missions announced by President Boakai on November 6, 2024. Others include Genevieve Kennedy for the United Kingdom, Teeko Yorlay for France, and Edward Appleton for Japan.
Mr. Pakalah called on President Boakai to launch a thorough investigation into the former Ambassador’s role in the 2020–2021 abuse cases in Abuja.
Mr. Pakalah emphasized that while Dr. Conteh did not directly commit the assault, his inaction, in Mr. Pakalah’s view, compromised the child’s access to justice and vital healthcare.
Mr. Pakalah argued that Dr. Conteh’s office failed to implement safeguarding policies to protect vulnerable individuals within the embassy’s premises.
Referencing Liberia’s Children Law, Mr. Pakalah cited Article 3, Section 21.1, which mandates protection for all children from sexual abuse and exploitation.
He stated, “By failing to protect a child on embassy grounds, Ambassador Conteh has violated Liberia’s Children Law and undermined efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence.”
The activist further noted that he has gathered medical reports confirming the abuse, identifying two individuals; known as Amula and Alieu who allegedly resided on embassy property and reportedly confessed to the assaults.
Mr. Pakalah claims that despite these findings, no measures were taken under Dr. Conteh’s leadership to ensure justice or aid for the survivor.
This call for accountability highlights growing public demands for transparency and action on sensitive issues within government institutions.
As Liberia looks to strengthen its reputation abroad, many await President Boakai’s response to Mr. Pakalah allegations and calls for Dr. Conteh’s revocation of assignment.
