By Christian Appleton
Harper City Corporation has suspended three officials, including Public Relations Officer Alphonso Bonar, Administrative Assistant Charles Dio, and Head of Maintenance Henry Jones, following allegations of financial misconduct involving a payment from Express Oil Petroleum Storage Terminal in Harper City, Maryland County.
Mayor Abraham B. Jackson announced the suspensions on March 17, 2025, after an investigation into claims made by Express Oil’s Manager, Boima Hill. Hill said a payment was made in December 2024 to Bonar, Dio, and Jones for municipal taxes, totaling L$60,000 and US$375. The L$60,000 was transferred via mobile money to Bonar’s account (0555227071), while the cash was handed over during a meeting after Bonar and the others allegedly pressured Hill for several days. Hill claims to possess chat records and transaction messages between him and Bonar, along with CCTV footage that supports his allegations.
Despite repeated requests, Hill reported that no official receipts for the payment were provided, sparking concerns about the corporation’s transparency and accountability. Following a meeting with Bonar, Dio, and Jones, the mayor was informed of several discrepancies. Bonar admitted to receiving the funds but claimed he acted on instructions from the Acting Mayor, Dio. Jones confirmed receiving L$30,000 and requested pardon for his actions. Dio, who was temporarily filling in as Acting Mayor during Jackson’s absence in Monrovia, denied receiving any payment.
Mayor Jackson voiced his frustration over the matter, emphasizing that this incident was not the first time Bonar had been linked to questionable financial activities, despite previous attempts to shield him from investigation. He stressed the critical importance of accountability within the city government and vowed to continue his efforts to expose criminal behavior.
“This is not the first criminal behavior exhibited by Alphonso Bonar. I’ve been covering up for him in the past, but this must stop now,” said Jackson.
As a result of the allegations, Bonar and Dio, both contracted employees, have been suspended without pay. Jones, a permanent employee, will have his salary withheld for five months as restitution for the funds in question. Mayor Jackson has also directed the Superintendent of Maryland County to freeze Jones’s salary until the matter is fully resolved.
The suspension letters, signed by Mayor Jackson, specify charges including failure to issue receipts for municipal tax payments, collecting funds under false pretenses, and engaging in financial malpractice. The suspensions are effective immediately, and the officials are required to return any City Corporation property they currently possess. Any further involvement in business dealings on behalf of Harper City Corporation will result in legal action.
Mayor Jackson has appointed Henry N. Kolenky as the new Public Relations Officer for Harper City Corporation, replacing Bonar.
In a public statement, Bonar defended his actions, claiming that his involvement was limited to processing a mobile money transaction and that he had no prior knowledge of any wrongdoing. He also questioned why Dio, who was acting as mayor at the time, had not been investigated. Bonar’s statement suggested ongoing tensions within the City Corporation, particularly regarding Dio’s role and his relationship with Mayor Jackson.
“I understand that Charles Dio is the mayor’s son-in-law, but my role as a public relations official comes with scrutiny. I have always upheld my integrity, and I stand by my actions,” Bonar wrote in a Facebook post addressing the allegations.
In response, Mayor Jackson reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability within the corporation. He emphasized that the suspensions were necessary to restore public trust and ensure proper governance.
“I will continue to expose any criminal activity within this corporation. Accountability will be the order of the day,” Jackson concluded.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further actions will depend on the findings. Mayor Jackson has made it clear that anyone found guilty of financial misconduct will face legal consequences.
Comments are closed.