Gbarngar, Bong County – Bong County Superintendent Hawah Norris has threatened to take legal action against companies that received funding for projects but failed to complete them during previous administrations.
In a recent radio interview in Gbarnga, Superintendent Norris disclosed that an on-going assessment audit is being conducted to identify these incomplete projects.
She warned that companies found to be in breach of their agreements would be held accountable for the funds they received or required to fulfil their obligations.
“There is an on-going assessment to capture projects awarded to companies in past administrations. Any company found in violation will face repercussions,” Norris stated.
Her warning comes amid rising concerns from residents and civil society organizations regarding contracts awarded to companies that allegedly failed to complete projects after receiving county funds.
Recently, the DELTAL-Human Rights Foundation filed a complaint with the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), requesting an investigation into the awarding of a renovation contract for the superintendent’s compound to JAMCO Construction Company.
JAMCO was awarded US$50,000 in 2020 by former Superintendent Esther Walker for the renovation project but did not complete it before Superintendent Norris assumed office.
She later awarded the same contract to JAMCO, explaining that the earlier funds would be deducted from the new contract amount.
In addition to the superintendent’s compound, JAMCO was granted four other contracts in 2020 for projects in Kokoryah District, including the Ula Town Clinic and Batawee Elementary School, all of which remain unfinished.
Other companies, such as Bong Engineering, Korlah and Son Construction, GEOXSOPE Limited, and Essay Brothers Builders, have also allegedly failed to complete their assigned projects.
When asked about contracts awarded during her administration, Superintendent Walker assured that all contracts complied with the Public Procurement Concession Commission (PPCC) Act. She defended her decision to re-award the contract to JAMCO, stating it was more resource-efficient than giving it to a different company.
In her first 100 days in office, Superintendent Norris outlined significant achievements, having secured over $300,000 for a development plan approved by the Bong County Council on July 1, 2024.
Key projects include fencing the Gbarnga Administration Building, upgrading facilities, and renovating the superintendent’s compound.
Additionally, she has initiated large bean farms in several districts to help generate revenue for the county.
Norris indicated that these projects are nearing completion and will be dedicated to the public soon.
By: Matalay Kollie, Correspondent
