The recent purchase of a new vehicle by Grand Bassa County Senator and Senate Pro-Tempore, Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, has sparked intense public debate.
A leaked invoice obtained by Verity reveals that the black Hyundai Staria 3.5L V6 was purchased under duty-free terms on December 20, 2024. The invoice, identified as AMC-067-24, confirms that the vehicle’s original price was US$45,000, but a US$2,000 discount reduced the final cost to US$43,000. Kamal Chandwaney, General Manager of Africa Motors, signed the transaction.
The sleek vehicle, which features a modern, luxurious design, has become controversial. Critics argue that such an expensive purchase is inappropriate, given Liberia’s ongoing struggles with widespread poverty and unemployment.
Former Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports under the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Isaac Doe, was among those who criticized the purchase. He wrote to social media, “Rescue aunty buys a new car, costs US$80,800. Congrats to Sen. Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence for the purchase of her new Hyundai Staria Highlander 2.2L turbo.” He added sarcastically, “Some of them only need 500 to pay their rent or start a little business.”
