By Sam S. Kangar
MONROVIA – The Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP) at the University of Liberia has issued a strong condemnation of University President, Dr. Ophelia Weeks Maparyan. They accused her of “hypocrisy and injustice”, claiming she is aligning herself with what they term “morally bankrupt” figures within the university administration.
In a press release published on Wednesday, June 25, SUP expressed outrage over the recent dismissal of eight staff members and the suspension of another employee, labeling these actions as “illegal” and demanding the immediate release of the investigative report that led to such decisions.
These controversial dismissals are linked to an investigation into alleged academic fraud at the university; however, SUP argues that no public explanation has been provided. “The Vanguard Party insists on an open process to avoid selective and biased reporting,” the statement asserts. “Since Dr. Maparyan initiated these dismissals, we have repeatedly requested access to the report with no response.”
Furthermore, SUP warned of “unspecified revolutionary actions” should the administration continue to ignore their calls for transparency regarding the findings of the Special Committee assigned to investigate this issue.
The statement also criticized Dr. Maparyan for neglecting significant challenges faced by students and faculty at the University of Liberia. They pointed out that her donation of US$10,000 to an unnamed organization despite reports that the university is in a state of “ruin” reflects misguided priorities.
To intensify their criticism, SUP condemned Dr. Maparyan’s silence following allegations that state security forces assaulted student protesters. They characterized this as a “betrayal” of students and evidence that she prioritizes her own interests over those of the community.
SUP’s Secretary-General Odecious Mulbah and Chairman Sylvester Wheeler both endorsed this statement, which was released under the authority of the party’s 33rd Politburo and Central Committee.
