Montserrado County District #3 Representative, Hon. Sumo Mulbah, has issued a stern warning to fellow lawmakers, urging them to halt all visits to concession sites, particularly those operated by companies with current business before the Legislature.
His statement follows recent visits by some members of the Joint Legislative Committee on Mineral Development Agreements (MDA) to the concession site of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), which has been at the center of growing public and legislative scrutiny.
In a strong statement, Rep. Mulbah cautioned against what he described as “obvious influence peddling,” stressing that lawmakers must uphold ethical standards and avoid any actions that could be perceived as biased or improper.
“Stop visiting concession and let the Executive take action”, Rep. Mulbah declared, adding that such visits create the perception of lawmakers being swayed by special interests.
While not a member of the Senate, Rep. Mulbah emphasized that this issue affects both houses of the Legislature. He referenced a recent statement by Nimba County Senator Nya D. Twayen, Jr., who raised concerns about lawmakers’ visits to the AML concession site. Rep. Mulbah supported the Senator’s move, calling it “right and necessary to inform the Liberian people.”
“As lawmakers, it’s crucial that we understand our roles and responsibilities, and follow legislative procedures that align with the public policy process,” Mulbah wrote.
He argued that visiting concession sites, especially those owned or operated by entities with pending agreements or significant influence, can lead to real or perceived conflicts of interest. According to him, such actions risk damaging public trust and the reputation of the Legislature.
“These types of interactions can ultimately erode public trust in government institutions,” he said. “When elected officials are seen visiting entities that benefit from their legislative decisions, it fuels cynicism and raises questions about the integrity of the democratic process.”
Mulbah went further to explain that even in the absence of direct bribery, accepting anything of value ~ gifts, hospitality, or access ~ from concessionaires could violate ethical standards.
“The perception of impropriety, even if no wrongdoing occurs, can damage the reputation of individual lawmakers and the legislative body as a whole,” he warned.
He also criticized the practice as one that undermines the constitutional balance of powers. According to Mulbah, it is the Executive Branch that bears the responsibility of implementing and monitoring concessions, and lawmakers should exercise oversight through formal channels ~ not direct visits to private entities.
“If we hold the Executive accountable for implementation, there would be no reason for us to visit concession sites,” he noted.
Rep. Mulbah concluded his statement with a call for the Legislature to return to standard practices and place the public interest above all else.
His comments have sparked conversations in political and civil society circles, with many echoing the concerns around transparency, integrity, and the proper role of lawmakers in dealing with corporate entities operating within the country.
