Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, the dismissed Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), has publicly rebuffed a bid by the institute’s Board to remove him from his post, labeling the allegations against him as “unconstitutional,” “baseless,” and part of an “orchestrated conspiracy.”
The dramatic clash came to light in a detailed response dated September 17, 2025, addressed to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. The letter was penned after Dr. Nyan was instructed by the Minister of State to answer to an NPHIL Board resolution containing eleven counts of allegations, which he claims were presented without evidence. In his robust 7-page rebuttal, Dr. Nyan systematically addressed each allegation, attaching multiple appendices as evidence to counter the Board’s claims. He asserted that all counts for his removal fail to meet the legal requirements outlined in the NPHIL Act of 2016.
“I returned home to serve my country in a technical, scientific, biomedical, and public health role… not to be involved in unhealthy political theatrics,” Dr. Nyan stated, emphasizing his commitment to building Liberia’s scientific capacity. He highlighted that under his leadership, NPHIL has been designated as a Regional Center of Excellence by the Africa-CDC. The Board’s allegations, which Dr. Nyan characterized as “broad, vague, and functionally inaccurate,” include: Lack of Board Involvement: Dr. Nyan countered that he has maintained regular contact with the Board Chair on all major decisions, submitting quarterly reports as required. He expressed puzzlement at the claim, providing evidence of reports on issues like the investigation of stolen government vehicles.
Poor Interagency Coordination:
The Director General listed numerous collaborations with agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency, the University of Liberia, and the Ministry of Health, attaching communications as proof. He alleged that the Ministry of Health, in fact, created “parallel structures” to conduct NPHIL’s work.
Unauthorized Travel:
This allegation was strongly denied, with Dr. Nyan providing text messages and emails to demonstrate he informed the Board Chair of his travels. He clarified that all trips were official, sponsored by bodies like the Africa CDC, and that succession in his absence is clearly dictated by the NPHIL Act.
Communication with President and Legislature: Dr. Nyan defended his direct communications with the President’s office and the Legislature, stating the NPHIL Act does not prohibit it. He argued that as head of an emergency response entity, refusing a presidential summons to report on an outbreak would be disrespectful.
Budget and Media Management:
The Director General provided evidence that the budget was submitted to and approved by the Board in January 2025, calling the contrary claim “inaccurate and misleading.” Regarding media presence, he stated that a board-approved communications department handles all public affairs, which is essential for public health awareness.
Allegations of Board Misconduct
Dr. Nyan turned the tables on the Board, accusing its members of violating the NPHIL Act. He claimed the Board has held “ad-hoc meetings” that intentionally excluded him, despite his role as Secretary to the Board, and then pressed NPHIL for “sitting fees” for these illegitimate meetings.
A Plea to the President
Concluding his letter, Dr. Nyan made a direct appeal to President Boakai to review the attached evidence. “I only wish to serve my country with transparency, accountability, sincerity and integrity,” he wrote. “Without those qualities, systemic failure may occur, reflecting poorly on your administration.” The public dispute throws the leadership of Liberia’s primary public health institution into uncertainty, raising questions about governance and political interference as the country continues to face health challenges.