After a tumultuous year, Cary Levitre has wrapped up his one-year role as Director of the Bureau of Public Safety, leaving a trail of controversy in his wake.
Just shy of his first-year anniversary, Levitre penned a letter, devoid of any official letterhead and addressed simply to Vice President and Minister of Justice Uduch Sengebau-Senior as “VP Sengebau,” announcing his resignation from the Directorship. Notably absent from the recipient list was President Surangel Whipps Jr., who appointed Levitre to the position.
Although not explicitly confirming his acceptance, President Whipps Jr. acknowledged during a Wednesday press conference that the resignation process was underway and expressed gratitude to Levitre for some perceived improvements during his tenure.
However, Levitre’s departure has stirred discontent among certain Senators, notably Senator Secilil Eldebechel, Chair of the Committee on Judiciary and Governmental Affairs. Eldebechel conducted an oversight hearing with Levitre and Bureau of Public Safety staff on February 13, 2024, an event Levitre cited as a factor in his resignation letter dated February 26th.
In a communication to Senate President Hokkons Baules, Senator Eldebechel voiced “grave disappointment” at Levitre’s insinuation that the Office of the Vice President and Minister of Justice prompted the Senate oversight hearing.
Eldebechel clarified that the oversight hearing had been planned beforehand to gather updates on the Bureau’s efforts to address operational issues affecting public trust. He noted that Levitre had been provided with questions in advance to facilitate preparation.
The Senator emphasized the significance of the Director’s role, pointing out its appointment by the President without Senate consent, thus increasing accountability to the public.
Concluding the communication, Eldebechel questioned Levitre’s suitability for the Director position, citing the need for integrity, resilience, and dedication to the Bureau’s welfare and mission. According to Eldebechel, Levitre’s resignation notice raises doubts about his ability to withstand public pressure and fulfill his duties impartially.