By Jamesetta D. Williams
Representative Taa Z. Wongbe has called for an urgent legislative inquiry into the management of the John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK), alleging delays and a lack of transparency in the treatment of a patient identified as Jestina and raising broader concerns about the country’s largest referral hospital.
In a public statement, Rep. Wongbe criticized what he described as the slow handling of the case, claiming that commitments reportedly made by JFK, including arrangements for the patient’s medical evacuation to India, have not been fulfilled.
The lawmaker also expressed dissatisfaction with the House of Representatives’ handling of the matter, stating that although Representative Sumo K. Mulbah requested that officials from JFK and the Ministry of Health appear before the House, no hearing has yet taken place.
Wongbe called on House leadership to ensure that JFK Chief Executive Officer Dr. Linda A. Birch and the hospital’s management appear before plenary to explain the circumstances surrounding the case and respond to concerns about the hospital’s operations.
He further questioned how the hospital continues to face challenges despite increased government funding for the health sector, arguing that accountability, leadership, and effective management are as important as financial resources in delivering quality healthcare.
The representative also urged authorities to facilitate the immediate medical evacuation of Jestina for specialized treatment, saying every effort should be made to ensure she receives the care she needs.
In his statement, Wongbe referenced another reported death at JFK that was allegedly linked to negligence. However, those allegations have not been independently verified, and no official findings have been released by health authorities.
He called for a transparent investigation into the allegations surrounding both cases, emphasizing that the public deserves clear information and accountability if failures occurred.
As of press time, neither the John F. Kennedy Medical Center nor the Ministry of Health had publicly responded to the lawmaker’s latest statement or the specific allegations raised.
The case has generated growing public attention, with civil society actors and advocates continuing to call for greater transparency, improved patient care, and accountability within Liberia’s public health system.
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