The Liberian Senate has launched an investigation into a $3M fund meant for road rehabilitation which is yet to be accounted for.
This comes as Bomi County Senator Edwin Snowe makes a call for a full-scale investigation into alleged misappropriation of $3 million USD designated for road construction projects.
The funds, originally allocated by Western Cluster Limited under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Liberian government, were intended for critical infrastructure development from the Freeport of Monrovia to the St. Paul Bridge Corridor.
The issue came to light during a session of the Liberian Senate, where Senator Snowe passionately addressed his colleagues and the President Pro-Tempore, Sen. Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence in a communication.
According to Senator Snowe, despite the substantial financial commitment from Western Cluster Limited and subsequent contractual agreements between the Ministry of Public Works and MDMC, there has been a glaring absence of progress on the ground.
Under the MoU’s stipulations, Western Cluster Limited pledged $4.5 million USD for various road construction projects across Liberia.
Of this amount, $1.5 million was earmarked for repairs on the Po River to Tubmanburg Road Corridor, while the remaining $3 million was allocated to the construction effort stretching from the bustling Freeport of Monrovia to the crucial St. Paul Bridge Corridor, a lifeline route for commercial activities and national connectivity.
Senator Snowe’s concerns were heightened by the lack of tangible results despite the financial transactions.
He emphasized that the Ministry of Public Works had purportedly engaged MDMC in a $3 million contractor agreement specifically for the Monrovia Freeport to St. Paul Bridge Corridor project.
However, no visible improvements or construction activities have been observed along this strategic transportation artery, raising serious questions about accountability and the effective use of public funds.
In response to these allegations, Senator Snowe formally requested the Senate’s Plenary to empower the Committees on Public Works to conduct a rigorous investigation into the matter.
He stressed the urgency of uncovering the truth behind the apparent misuse or misallocation of funds meant for critical infrastructure projects that directly impact the lives and livelihoods of Liberian citizens.
The call for an inquiry has sparked widespread interest and concern among lawmakers and the general public alike.
Many are now looking to the Senate to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of public resources, particularly in infrastructure development which is a cornerstone of Liberia’s economic growth and social progress.
The Liberian Senate however made a decision, mandating it’s Committee on public works chair by Grand Kru Senator Albert Chie to investigate the matter.
The committee as per the mandate is expected to report to the plenary within a one week period.
The Senate now prepares to delve into the details of this complex issue which is believed to have been done under the CDC led government.
Eyes are on the outcomes of the investigation and the subsequent actions that will be taken to rectify any wrongdoing and restore public trust in governance and fiscal management.
Senator Snowe’s inqui underscores the Senate’s role as a guardian of the people’s interests and a vigilant overseer of government operations, especially in matters involving public finances and infrastructure development.
The outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly shape future policies and practices regarding the allocation and utilization of funds for national development projects.
For now, Liberia awaits the Senate’s decisive action and hopes for a swift and transparent resolution to ensure that justice is served and the integrity of public service is upheld.
