The leadership crisis at Phebe Hospital has entered another stage with the immediate suspension of the medical director.
The crisis also deepened the Lutheran Church intervened. The intervention placed the hospital’s medical director, Dr. Minnie Ricks, on a one-month administrative leave amid growing concerns, protests, and ongoing investigations into the affairs.
Lutheran Bishop Victor Padmore, announced the decision during a press conference held at the Bishop’s Office in Sinkor, Monrovia, on Saturday, July 11, 2026.
Bishop Padmore said, the ‘temporary administrative action,’ is intended to create an environment that will allow an ongoing audit, and a special investigative committee to conduct their work independently without outside interference.
He told reporters that the move is to also reduce tensions at Phebe Hospital, and create conditions for dialogue and stability as authorities seek a lasting solution to the dispute affecting the facility.
The intervention comes following weeks of health workers’ protests, during which the aggrieved workers had demanded the doctor’s removal.
The workers who turned aggrieved during their protest demanded major leadership changes, including the removal of Dr. Winnie Ricks and her two deputies from their respective positions.
The protests have drawn widespread public attention, with citizens expressing concern about the impact of the dispute on healthcare services at the referral hospital.
Bishop Padmore said, the Lutheran Church remains committed to fairness, transparency and due process.
“Although the allegations have been raised against members of the hospital’s leadership, no employee can be removed based solely on accusations without the conclusion of proper investigations.”
The Bishop emphasized the need for ‘administrative leave’ that should not be interpreted as a declaration of guilt against Dr. Ricks, but rather as a step to allow investigators to carry out their responsibilities in a neutral and ‘professional manner.’
The special investigative committee, and audit team are expected to examine the concerns raised, and provide recommendations that will guide the church’s next decision regarding the future leadership and administration of Phebe Hospital.
Meanwhile, the healthcare workers, patients, and residents of Bong County are closely monitoring the process, with the hope that the investigation will bring an end to the prolonged crisis and restore confidence in the hospital’s management.
The Lutheran Church says, it remains committed to ensure accountability, protecting the integrity of the institution, and restore normal operations.
