Monrovia, Liberia – August 8, 2025 – The Ministry of Justice has suspended Foldela Sugar Kwaidah, Medical Coordinator at Monrovia Central Prison, following allegations that she took money from inmates’ families by promising early release through executive clemency or medical leave.
Sources inside the prison say Kwaidah demanded and accepted thousands of dollars from desperate relatives, claiming she could influence who would be included on the President’s clemency list or arrange temporary medical release.
Executive clemency, usually granted by the President during major holidays like Independence Day and Christmas, is a rare chance for some inmates to be freed. However, after the latest clemency announcement, several families who paid bribes to Kwaidah found their loved ones were not pardoned.
The scandal caused outrage, and at least one family filed a formal complaint, leading to Kwaidah’s suspension.
Speaking to Journalists, Assistant Minister for Rehabilitation, Atty. Gabriel F. Ndupellar, confirmed the suspension but did not share details.
“She has been asked to step down while we investigate,” Ndupellar said. “We are a security institution and cannot provide more information right now.”
Kwaidah’s suspension began about two weeks ago and is indefinite, pending the investigation. The Ministry has not said if criminal charges will be filed.
Sources close to the prison suggest Kwaidah’s involvement in this scheme may go back to the previous administration when her father was Director of the Bureau of Corrections. She is accused of using her family ties and her position to demand money in exchange for false promises.
Kwaidah has not responded to repeated requests for comment.
This case has raised fresh concerns about corruption in Liberia’s prison system and sparked calls for better oversight and transparency in the clemency and medical release process.
This story is still developing. Updates will follow as new information becomes available.
