By Jamesetta D. Williams
MONROVIA-The Government of Liberia has strongly defended the John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK) against recent criticisms describing the country’s main referral hospital as a place “for killing,” while also dismissing reports circulating on social media claiming that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s aircraft caught fire during his trip to the ECOWAS Summit.
Speaking during the Ministry of Information regular press briefing, Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah condemned what he described as irresponsible statements against JFK Medical Center, saying such comments undermine the sacrifices of doctors, nurses, technicians, and other healthcare workers who continue to provide medical services to Liberians.
Minister Piah said public institutions must be supported and protected, noting that negative characterizations of national institutions can damage public confidence and disrespect those working to serve the country.
He disclosed that he personally sought medical attention at JFK Medical Center over the weekend and experienced firsthand the commitment and professionalism of healthcare workers at the facility.
According to the Minister, thousands of Liberians are alive today because of the services provided by JFK, emphasizing that deaths occur in hospitals around the world despite the best efforts of medical professionals.
He argued that such incidents should not be used to label or discredit a national referral hospital that continues to provide critical healthcare services to the population.
The Government, he said, is calling on public officials and political actors to exercise responsibility when commenting on public institutions and to avoid statements that could undermine national development efforts.
Meanwhile, Minister Piah has rejected reports claiming that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s aircraft caught fire while traveling to attend the ECOWAS Summit.
He described the reports as completely false and part of misinformation circulating on social media.
According to him, President Boakai traveled safely, returned safely, and has continued performing his official duties, including participating in national events such as the opening of the 2026 National Technology Summit.
The Information Minister urged Liberians to be cautious about information shared online and encouraged citizens to verify reports before accepting or spreading them.
He stressed that misinformation has the potential to create unnecessary fear and confusion among the public and called for greater responsibility in the use of social media platforms.
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to defending public institutions, promoting accurate information, and ensuring that national development efforts are not undermined by false claims and irresponsible statements.
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