By By: Staff Writer
Monrovia – The University of Liberia is facing fresh questions after its Vice President for Finance, Dr. Lester Tenny, resigned suddenly, citing “several developments” behind his decision.
In a letter dated August 17, 2026 to UL President Dr. Layli Maparyan, Dr. Tenny said it was a “pleasure serving” as both interim and substantive VP for Finance. But he said he can now “leave the stage as a vice president and maintain my professorial duties.”
He did not explain what the “several developments” were.
Just 5 days later, on Sunday, August 22, 2026, President Maparyan announced she had appointed Mr. Togar M. Gibson as Acting Vice President for Finance & Fiscal Affairs, effective immediately.
The controversial part: Mr. Gibson will hold BOTH jobs at the same time. He remains Comptroller of the Business and Finance Office while also running the entire finance division.
“During this time of transition, Mr. Gibson will continue to serve as both VPF and Comptroller until the Board of Trustees can be consulted,” the President’s memo stated.
Staff were told to direct all financial issues to Mr. Gibson.
The dual appointment raises concerns about checks and balances at UL. Normally, the Comptroller and VP for Finance are separate roles meant to provide oversight of each other.
Dr. Tenny’s vague resignation and the immediate decision to merge the two top finance jobs have sparked discussion among UL staff about transparency and governance at the state-run university.
President Maparyan thanked Mr. Gibson “for his willingness to serve in this capacity.”
The UL Board of Trustees is expected to be consulted on a permanent replacement.
