The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has refuted recent media claims alleging that it purchased vehicles exceeding the approved spending limit for government institutions.
In a statement released Friday, May 23, 2025, the EPA responded to a publication by FrontPage Africa (FPA), which claimed that the agency had acquired a Toyota Land Cruiser for US$78,000 and another vehicle for US$46,000 – both reportedly for senior EPA officials.
The agency, under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, categorically denied any violation of the procurement ceiling, asserting that no vehicle had been purchased for more than the US$45,000 limit set by government regulations.
According to the EPA, the vehicle procurement included five units acquired through proper channels in line with the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) guidelines. These included:
One 30-seater Toyota bus for US$78,000
Two Toyota Land Cruisers at US$44,000 each
One Toyota Prado for US$45,000
One 17-seater staff bus from Alliance Motor Corporation for US$38,500
The EPA clarified that the US$78,000 bus mentioned in the FPA report was a 30-seater vehicle, not an SUV or personal car for an official, as implied.
Three vehicles ( the 30-seater bus), the Prado, and one Land Cruiser have already been delivered. The remaining Land Cruiser will be delivered once the final installment payment is completed.
The EPA also addressed questions about the use of the vehicles. The Toyota Prado has been assigned to the Deputy Executive Director, who previously lacked an official vehicle. Dr. Yarkpawolo continues to use a Toyota Hilux Pickup inherited from his predecessor.
As of press time, the management of Frontpage Africa newspaper hasn’t responded to the rebuttal by the EPA.
The agency emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to national procurement laws.
