Monrovia – The Executive Protection Service (EPS) has released a press statement to address concerns raised by politicians and journalists regarding the security protection provided to former President George Manneh Weah and the termination of some EPS agents.
In the statement, the EPS clarified that there is no law mandating the provision of bodyguards for former Presidents or Vice Presidents. However, it has been a longstanding tradition for the incumbent President to authorize security protection for those who held the office before them. This tradition extends to former Presidents and former Vice Presidents. The size of the security detail assigned to each VIP is determined by the EPS based on the threat level surrounding them.
Regarding former President Weah, the EPS emphasized that several well-trained agents with extensive experience have been assigned to ensure his safety. In fact, he has received the largest number of bodyguards among former Presidents in recent history. However, if he wishes to enhance his security further, he has the option to hire private security guards, as former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and former Vice President Joseph Nyuma Boakai have done in the past.
The EPS also addressed the issue of terminated agents. According to the statement, the majority of agents who were terminated had been absent from work since January 2024 without proper leaves (AWOL). It has been discovered that most of these agents have left the country. Additionally, the EPS stated that those who resigned have communicated their decision to the EPS Human Resource Department and are currently residing abroad.
The press statement was signed by Philip G. Moore, the EPS Media Officer, who emphasized the commitment of the EPS to ensuring the safety and security of all individuals under their protection.
As the EPS clarifies these issues, it is expected that the public will have a better understanding of the security protocols in place for former Presidents and the circumstances surrounding the termination and resignation of EPS agents.