The government of Liberia has stirred confusion and sparked widespread criticism after revealing that a multi-million-dollar deal for earth-moving equipment was based on a “Gentlemen’s Agreement.”
This revelation contrasts sharply with previous statements that suggested a formal turnover ceremony had taken place.
On May 23-25, 2024, the Government of Liberia (GoL) hosted a three-day cabinet retreat in Monrovia. During this event, Minister of State without Portfolio Mamaka Bility announced that 285 pieces of earth-moving equipment had been officially handed over to the GoL in a virtual ceremony.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, including Sylvester M. Grigsby, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, and Roland Layfette Giddings, Minister of Public Works.
The announcement was supported by a video titled “Official Turning over Ceremony,” featuring Xu Ming, Senior Vice President of Sany Group, a Chinese multinational heavy equipment manufacturing company, and Robert Gumede, Chairman of the Guma Group based in South Africa.
However, on May 28, 2024, Minister of Information, Culture Affairs, and Tourism Jerolinmek Piah contradicted this narrative.
He clarified that Minister Bility’s announcement was merely an update on the government’s plans, not the result of any binding agreement. Piah emphasized that while the GoL can negotiate deals in the country’s interest, such negotiations must adhere to the rule of law and the separation of powers.
This contradictory stance has fueled public debate and skepticism. The most recent communication from President Joseph Boakai to the Legislature has only intensified these concerns. In his letter, President Boakai explained that the acquisition of the earth-moving equipment was based on a conversation with a long-time friend who, motivated by solidarity and a commitment to the ARREST Agenda, offered the equipment without requiring a formal contract.
President Boakai assured the Legislature that no formal agreement or financial commitments had been made by the GoL, stating, “To date, no funds from the Liberian treasury have been spent on this project.” Despite these assurances, critics and advocacy groups, including the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), have voiced concerns over the apparent disregard for public procurement laws.
On July 6, 2024, the Liberian government showcased several pieces of the equipment, with media outlets confirming the importation of the first batch.
This move, without clear evidence of adherence to procurement laws, has raised further questions about the legitimacy of the process.
Mulbah Morlu, Chairman and Lead Advocate of STAND, expressed outrage in a recent communication, stating, “Once you take custody, the risks and ownership have passed to you. Why can’t Uncle Joe simply say we made a mistake, apologize, and ask the Legislature to regularize the situation? The letter puts the government in a bad light. Some selfish individuals want to destroy Uncle Joe’s government.”
Morlu’s statement underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential for international ramifications. Conducting government business based on informal agreements undermines the principles of transparency and accountability.
Morlu called for the Legislature to take immediate action, suggesting that those responsible for misleading the government should be held accountable.
The backlash against this”Gentlemen’s Agreement” has highlighted a broader issue within the government—the blurred lines between personal relationships and official state affairs.
Previous instances, such as former President George Weah’s claims about receiving money from friends for various projects, further illustrate the problematic nature of such informal arrangements.
The controversy surrounding the earth-moving equipment deal underscores the urgent need for stricter adherence to procurement laws and a clear separation between personal relationships and government operations.
As public trust continues to wane, it is imperative for President Boakai and his administration to take decisive action to restore faith in their commitment to transparency and accountability.
Critics believe the incident serves as a stark reminder that good governance cannot be based on informal agreements and personal connections.
The government must demonstrate its dedication to the rule of law and the principles of democracy by ensuring that all transactions are conducted with the utmost integrity and in accordance with established legal frameworks. Only then can Liberia move forward with the confidence of its citizens and the international community.
