Paynesville, Liberia – The Ministry of Youth and Sports officially transitioned leadership as Atty. Cornelia W. Kruah assumed office, succeeding Cllr. Jerror Cole Bangalu. Cllr. Bangalu made it clear in his turning-over statement that he leaves the Ministry feeling fulfilled rather than lost, stating that he has done meaningful work, sown the seeds of reform, and laid solid groundwork for future expansion.
The outgoing Minister, who now leads the LRRRC, handed over a legacy defined by a new Five-Year Strategic Plan and the graduation of hundreds of vocational students through the MVTC and B-DOTC. In his farewell speech, Cllr. Bangalu urged his successor to prioritize the signing of the TVET Commission Act and the construction of a permanent Ministry headquarters.
The ceremony, according to Atty. Kruah’s words, was more than just a legal transfer; it was the symbolic handoff of power from a leader she referred to as her “traditional predecessor,” recalling that she had previously replaced Cllr. Bangalu Before taking over as minister, Bangalu served as the Unity Party’s national vice chairman for inter-party affairs and the NEC.
One of the youngest people to ever hold the position, Minister Kruah, set a clear tone for her administration when she took the helm. She emphasized a “results-only” mentality and cautioned employees that their professional status will be determined by their performance rather than their friendship.
Although Atty. Kruah acknowledged financial limitations and practical difficulties, she promised to push for higher civil service pay in return for productivity and punctuality. Minister Kruah reminded the Senior Management Team (SMT) members in her that accountability, cooperation, and openness are essential components of effective leadership. In order to foster inclusivity and successful program execution, she advocated for increased interdepartmental contact.
Professional colleagues, political party executives, friends, supporters, and Ministry of Youth and Sports staff graced the well-attended turnover ceremony, which marked a significant transition as MYS sets out on a new path of accountability, reform, and performance-driven leadership.
Reported by: Albert M Fania
