The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has sharply criticized Senator Saah Joseph of Montserrado County, accusing him of using state resources to fund the construction of massive private schools, while many public institutions across the country remain in dire conditions.
In a strongly worded statement issued by CENTAL Executive Director Anderson Miamen, the organization expressed deep concern over what it described as the “questionable source of funding” behind the senator’s recent developments. Miamen pointed out that such private ventures are flourishing even as public schools and health facilities continue to deteriorate and a large number of Liberians struggle with poverty and limited job opportunities.
“One sitting senator and an official of government can afford to build this structure, plus many more, perhaps,” Miamen wrote, referencing the large private school linked to Senator Joseph. “By the way, he is not alone. Another senator has a private university and other gigantic structures across the country – assets they never had before entering government.”
Miamen further suggested that the sudden wealth displayed by some lawmakers raises serious red flags about corruption and abuse of public office. He also cited the example of a former lawmaker whose extravagant lifestyle reportedly ended after leaving a high-ranking government position.
“These things are happening when many Liberians are going to bed hungry due to limited job opportunities,” Miamen emphasized. “Spare me the argument about these projects benefiting Liberians. That is not the point. I am concerned about the seemingly questionable sources of funding.”
CENTAL’s statement adds fuel to ongoing public concerns about corruption in Liberia’s government, particularly the unexplained accumulation of wealth by public officials. Miamen concluded with a call for greater accountability and asset recovery: “The day Liberia will be truly ready to tackle corruption and identify and recover stolen government assets, citizens will begin to realize the true benefits of their resources.”
He added, “Accountability delayed is not accountability denied. One fine day, many of these and other assets will be returned to their true owners ( Liberians ).”
As of press time, Senator Saah Joseph has not publicly responded to the allegations.
