Claims Of “Persistent Workplace Discrimination,” Other Vices, But LNP High Command Yet To Reat
PHOTO: (L_R) Outgoing Police Spokesperson Cecelia G. Clarke and incoming Police Spokesman Sam Collins
A controversy has erupted at the Liberia National Police (LNP) in the wake of a change of guard over the Department of Public Affairs, with the LNP authorities announcing the appointment of Sam Collins, a former Police spokesman, replace DCP Cecelia G. Clarke, who has raised questions of injustice and “workplace discrimination”.
As the LNP transferred DCP Clarke to the protocol section, something she has rejected. Police authorities quickly announced her replacement with a one-time Police Spokesman Sam Collins who was also Assistant Defense Minister for Public Affairs in the former CDC government of ex-President George Manneh Weah.
A statement posted on the LNP’s official Facebook page today said: “The Liberia National Police expresses full confidence in Deputy Commissioner Collins’ experience, leadership, and commitment to transparent communication.”
However, the outgoing LNP spokesperson, Cecelia Clarke has taken serious exception to her removal and transfer, announcing her resignation from the Police today, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, pointing to a number of factors.
“My decision to resign follows careful reflection on a range of professional and administrative challenges experienced over nearly two years. These include persistent workplace discrimination, operational constraints, limited institutional support, structural barriers affecting the performance of my office, and difficulties in team collaboration,” DCP Clarke said in a press statement.
SEE BOTH THE LNP AND DCP CLARKE’S STATEMENTS BELOW:
LNP statement
The Liberia National Police wishes to inform the general public that Deputy Commissioner of Police Sam Collins has officially assumed duty as the new Spokesperson of the Liberia National Police.
The reassignment of Deputy Commissioner Collins is in line with an administrative decision by the Liberia National Police to strategically transfer officers across various divisions in order to enhance efficiency, professionalism, and effective service delivery.
The Liberia National Police expresses full confidence in Deputy Commissioner Collins’ experience, leadership, and commitment to transparent communication.
As he resumes his responsibilities as Head of the Press and Public Affairs Division, the LNP looks forward to strengthened engagement with the media and the public.
Signed:
Administration
DCP Cecelia G. Clarke’s press statement:
Capitol Hill
Monrovia, Liberia
February 18, 2026
I, Cecelia G. Clarke, Deputy Commissioner of Police, have formally resigned from the position of Police Spokesperson of the Liberia National Police, effective February 18, 2026.
Having served in this role with dedication and commitment to professionalism, I consider it a privilege to have contributed to strengthening public communication and institutional transparency during my time. As one of the few women to serve in such a visible leadership position within the LNP, I have embraced this responsibility with integrity, vision, and a deep sense of professionalism. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve in the police by building trust and improving communication with the public and the security sector.
My decision to resign follows careful reflection on a range of professional and administrative challenges experienced over nearly two years. These include persistent workplace discrimination, operational constraints, limited institutional support, structural barriers affecting the performance of my office, and difficulties in team collaboration.
Despite continued efforts to address these matters internally and uphold the highest level of professionalism, recent developments have made it clear that resigning from my position is in the best interest of both myself and the institution.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Liberian people through the Liberia National Police. I remain appreciative of my colleagues and partners who supported the work of the LNP. I hope the institution will work to strengthen its system to promote fairness, inclusion, professionalism, and a healthy workplace for all officers, irrespective of gender, experience, or background.
I remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition and wish the Liberia National Police continued success in fulfilling its mandate of serving and protecting the public.
Best regards,
Cecelia G. Clarke
Former DCP