By Amos Harris
Mr. Benedict Yeke Harleyson, the newly appointed Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), has pledged to foster unity, humility, teamwork, and high performance as he officially assumes his role.
Speaking at his formal takeover ceremony, Deputy Minister Harleyson expressed heartfelt gratitude to the staff for their warm reception. He also commended the Department of Administration for maintaining institutional stability and ensuring smooth operations during the recent leadership transition.
Reflecting on his professional journey, Harleyson described himself as “one of the babies of this ministry,” recalling that his career began at the MFDP as a cadet back in 2007. He noted that the institution played a pivotal role in shaping his growth, comparing his professional development there to a child growing into adulthood, and acknowledged the profound impact the ministry has had on his career.
Addressing the gathered staff, the new Deputy Minister reminded everyone that while leadership changes are inevitable, the ministry’s core mission remains steadfast. He emphasized that every employee, regardless of rank or title, plays an essential role in fulfilling the MFDP’s objectives.
“We are all in the same boat. Every role matters,” Harleyson stated, underscoring the vital importance of collective effort in advancing the ministry’s work.
Harleyson also advocated for genuine humility in public leadership, remarking that government roles should be treated as opportunities to serve the nation rather than badges of authority. He reassured the staff that he remains approachable and receptive to innovative ideas, encouraging employees to offer honest feedback and willingly embrace new challenges. Additionally, he called on senior officials to mentor younger staff members, attributing much of his own success to the guidance he received from experienced colleagues throughout his career. He added that enhanced cross-departmental collaboration is crucial to boosting efficiency and delivering better services to the Liberian public.
During the ceremony, Assistant Minister for Administration Paul T. Lamin formally handed over leadership duties to Deputy Minister Harleyson. Lamin presented the ministry’s second-quarter progress report along with key transition documents, reaffirming his department’s dedication to supporting the ministry’s ongoing mission.
Representing Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Chief of Staff Hon. Philajua Boima commended Harleyson for his integrity, professionalism, and extensive experience. She emphasized that his appointment reflects the strong confidence President Joseph Nyuma Boakai places in his capabilities, and she urged the staff to offer him their complete support.
Adding to the welcome, Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning, Madam Tanneh G. Brunson, described the MFDP as a close-knit family built on mentorship and continuous learning. She expressed firm confidence that Harleyson’s leadership would strengthen the ministry’s collaborative culture and drive enhanced institutional performance.
The ceremony brought together ministers, assistant ministers, directors, senior officials, and staff members across the ministry, marking the official commencement of Harleyson’s tenure as Deputy Minister for Administration.