Under a cloud of controversy, Dorr Cooper has resigned from his post as Inspector General at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry following damning revelations about his academic credentials.
Cooper, once seen as a reform-minded official, quietly vacated his office earlier this week without issuing any formal communication to staff or the public.
Sources within the ministry confirmed that he removed his personal belongings and left unceremoniously, a departure widely interpreted as a forced exit in the wake of mounting pressure.
The scandal surrounding Cooper erupted after investigative reports and civil society watchdogs revealed that he had falsified his academic background.
Contrary to his claims, Cooper never completed high school, yet he allegedly forged documents indicating that he had obtained a degree from the University of Liberia- nation’s premier public higher learning institution.
The University of Liberia, in response to the scandal, has reportedly dismissed several employees linked to Cooper’s fraudulent academic records.
Internal investigations revealed that some university staff, including instructors and administrative personnel, colluded to facilitate the fabrication of Cooper’s academic qualifications.
The university has since taken what it described as “serious disciplinary action” against those implicated in the cover-up.
“This resignation is not a coincidence,” said one senior civil servant who asked to remain anonymous.
“There has been a persistent call for transparency and accountability, especially when individuals in high offices are found to be operating under false pretenses.
The people deserve honesty from their public officials.”
Cooper’s tenure, though initially welcomed with optimism for institutional reforms, had been marred by growing criticisms, including poor administrative oversight and limited public engagement.
But it is the academic fraud scandal that ultimately sealed his fate.
As of press time, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has yet to release a formal statement regarding Cooper’s resignation or any plans for a successor.
It is also unclear whether law enforcement agencies will launch a formal investigation into the forged credentials and broader institutional failings that enabled Cooper’s rise.
The public continues to demand accountability not just from Cooper but from all institutions involved in this breach of public trust.
The saga serves as a stark reminder of the deep-rooted challenges Liberia faces in maintaining transparency and meritocracy within its public sector.