East region: Hospital Director suspended for boycotting 11 February celebration preparations
By Charity Nginyu
Tensions have escalated in the East Region, following the suspension of the Director of the Messamena District Hospital, Dr. Assamba Mpom Serge Auguste Paul.
The suspension comes amid allegations of boycotting work and preparations for the National Youth Day celebration on February 11.
The controversy traces back to a release issued by the Divisional Officer of Messamena, Minlo Yves Stanislas on January 23, 2024, where the Director was accused of absenteeism during a crucial preparatory meeting. The Divisional Officer demanded written explanations within a limited timeframe, sparking a heated exchange between the two parties.
Reacting to the accusations, Dr. Assamba Mpom Serge Auguste Paul vehemently denied any wrongdoing, alleging bad faith on the part of the Divisional Officer.
Despite his rebuttal, the Ministry of Public Health proceeded with disciplinary action, issuing a three-month suspension to Dr. Assamba Mpom Serge Auguste Paul on March 8, 2024. The suspension, effective immediately, entails deprivation of basic salary until the Director’s reinstatement.
Genesis
On January 23, 2024, the Divisional Officer of Messamena issued a release accusing the Director of the Messamena District Hospital of boycotting work and preparations for the celebration of National Youth Day on February 11 without permission. The Divisional Officer demanded written explanations within 148 hours for the perceived absence during the preparatory meeting.
In response, the Director expressed dismay at the accusation, citing the delayed notification of the summons and asserting bad faith on the part of the Divisional Officer. He emphasized his professional integrity and refuted claims of negligence, stating, “I am neither your serf, nor contempt, or even disdain, and I will NEVER say it!”
Over a month later, on March 8, 2024, the Ministry of Public Health issued a three-month suspension to the Director, citing breach of professional ethics and conduct.
The suspension entails deprivation of basic salary until the Director’s return to service.
