The Assistant Minister for Urban Affairs, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Mike Khailelu B. Jabateh, has observed that in moments of loss emotions often run high, but urged that even in grief the values of respect, dignity, and truth must be upheld, especially when it involves the memory of a loved one.
Assistant Minister Jabateh said the recent allegation levied against Senator Zoe Pennue of Grand Gedeh County by Veronica Mamie Doe is unfortunate and deeply concerning. He stated that the allegation must not be taken for granted, as it has the potential to sow disunity among the people of Grand Gedeh County and the family members of the late President of Liberia, Samuel K. Doe.
According to him, making such serious accusations without evidence not only threatens individual reputation but also risks inflaming tensions and dividing both the county and the country at large.
“As Liberians, we must begin to change this dangerous pattern of publicly blaming others whenever someone passes away. Just recently, when the Chief of Staff to former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah sadly died, some in the public quickly turned to accuse Minister Tweah and others—again without proof. Similarly, when former Senator Prince Y. Johnson passed, there were unfounded accusations directed at the current Vice President. We must desist from this trend. It is harmful, disrespectful, and undermines national unity,” Assistant Minister Jabateh underscored.
He noted that if there are genuine concerns surrounding the death of a loved one, the right course of action is to seek a formal investigation or autopsy through the appropriate legal and medical channels, but warned that justice must be pursued through due process, not rumor or speculation.
“Turning grief into blame without fact dishonors the memory of the deceased and threatens the peace and cohesion we all value. This is a time for healing—not hostility. Let us focus on compassion, truth, and unity. Let the soul of the late Madam rest in peace. And let us as a people rise above speculation and act with wisdom and responsibility,” he noted.
