By By The People Newspaper
Monrovia, Liberia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has suspended the Deputy Minister for Youth Development, Bryant McGill, following grave allegations linking him to the rape of a minor. The decision, announced late Wednesday, underscores the government’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
The Executive Mansion in a release said McGill will remain suspended until the outcome of a full-scale investigation. The move comes amid mounting public pressure and an outcry from women’s rights advocates who have long demanded accountability in cases of sexual violence involving public officials.
Prominent women’s rights organizations welcomed the suspension but stressed that it must be followed by impartial prosecution. “This is not just about suspension; it is about ensuring justice for survivors of rape and holding those in power accountable,” said a representative of the Women NGO..
Advocates recalled that Liberia has struggled with high rates of SGBV despite numerous awareness campaigns and legal reforms. They argued that alleged perpetrators in positions of authority often intimidate survivors, making it difficult to secure convictions.
The Liberia National Police (LNP) has confirmed that an investigation is already underway. Police Inspector General, Col. Gregory Coleman, described the allegations as “deeply disturbing” and pledged an impartial probe.
“We will leave no stone unturned. No one is above the law, and if evidence proves the allegations, justice will take its course,” IG Coleman assured.
Reports of the Deputy Minister’s alleged involvement first surfaced earlier this week when family members of the minor victim raised alarm. Women’s rights activists quickly rallied around the case, demanding swift action and transparency. The incident has revived public debate about government’s commitment to enforcing the Rape Law and protecting minors.
Liberia has recorded a troubling surge in rape cases in recent years. In 2020, the country saw mass protests led by the “We Are Tired” movement, where hundreds of women marched against widespread impunity for rapists. The current case, involving a top government official, has reignited those painful memories and calls for systemic reform.
As the investigation unfolds, rights groups are pressing for the suspension to serve as a turning point in Liberia’s fight against SGBV. “Justice delayed is justice denied. The young girl deserves closure, and Liberians deserve to see accountability at the highest level,” said a gender justice campaigner.
The suspension of McGill, though significant, marks only the beginning of what could be a long legal and political battle, with civil society pledging to keep the pressure on until justice is served.
