Othello Nimely
A fresh controversy surrounding alleged duplicate salary payments has emerged at the Ministry of Local Government following startling revelations made by former Minister of Urban Affairs Mike Jabateh during a radio interview
Speaking on Spoon FM last weekend, Jabateh openly admitted that he is receiving government salary payments despite being relieved of his position by the government.
According to Jabateh, although he was officially removed from the position of Minister of Urban Affairs, he has not formally turned over the office to his successor, Mr. Eddie Cornelius Dillah, who was appointed by the government to replace him.
Jabateh argued that the reassignment offered to him by authorities as Assistant Minister for Peace building is not a legitimate position recognized under the legal framework establishing the ministry.
He maintained that because the position does not exist within the ministry’s structure, he decided not to leave the office and his office staff are still going to work.
The former minister’s comments suggest that both he and his replacement may currently be benefiting from government payroll allocations tied to the same position, a situation that could amount to duplicate salary payments.
The revelation raises concerns over accountability and financial management within the government.
During the interview, Jabateh also launched sharp criticism against Minister Nyumalin, accusing him of operating what he described as an intimidating leadership style within the ministry.
Jabateh referred to the minister as “a dictator,” alleging that Nyumalin frequently threatens ministry employees by claiming close family ties to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
The former Urban Affairs Minister further lamented that he can no longer work under Nyumalin’s administration. He appealed to President Boakai to reassign him to another government ministry or agency.
Jabateh additionally claimed that he has suffered neglect and suppression since joining what was formerly known as the Ministry of Internal Affairs, now renamed the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Community Services.
According to him, despite serving in a ministerial role, he was denied several benefits and operational support usually associated with his office. He alleged that he personally purchased furniture for his office and used his own private vehicle to carry out official duties while serving in government.
Till news time, there has not been any public statement from minister Nyumalin or the ministry of information concerning Jabateh statements.
The latest revelation adds to growing public scrutiny over payroll management in government institutions and may increase calls for a comprehensive audit of salary payments across ministries and agencies.
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