Kokoya, Bong County — A new controversy is unfolding in Tokpablee Administrative District, Bong Electoral District One, as allegations of financial mismanagement surrounding rental fees from a key government property deepen public concern.
In an exclusive interview, Tokpablee District Commissioner Ansumana Sirleaf warned fellow officials that the time for “business as usual” is over, echoing national calls for accountability and reform. “This is our country,” he stressed, urging statutory officials and citizens alike to change their attitudes and commit to responsible governance.
At the heart of the issue is a long-standing dispute involving US$10,000 reportedly generated from renting the District Commissioner Compound in Botota to a private company, WBHO – a subcontractor of Arcellormitta Liberia. According to past reports, the funds were allegedly used by a small group of district officials—led by Officer-in-Charge Isaac Freeman—without broader consultation or transparency.
Despite earlier protests and promises of accountability, Commissioner Sirleaf confirmed that the matter remains unresolved. “Up to now, nothing has been done,” he said, noting that officials had previously agreed to explain the use of the funds after the contract expired—but failed to do so.
The situation has worsened with fresh allegations that an additional US$6,000, generated from a new one-year rental agreement with another company conducting assessments in the district, has also not been properly accounted for.
Sirleaf revealed that only two individuals, Isaac Freeman and Halary Garyeazon, OIC, and Financial Officer, allegedly handled the new lease arrangement without informing district authorities. “Is this how it’s supposed to start?” he questioned. “Will you sign agreements without the representatives of the district involvement?”
Though the individuals involved reportedly admitted receiving the money, they have yet to clearly state where the funds are.
The lack of transparency has triggered frustration among local leaders and citizens. Sirleaf acknowledged growing pressure for action, including the possibility of peaceful protests if accountability is not ensured.
“What we are trying to build, others are trying to destroy,” he lamented, emphasizing that such practices undermine development efforts in the district.
The commissioner also highlighted missed opportunities to use the funds for community development. He suggested that even the disputed $6,000 could have been invested in local initiatives, such as small-scale production or services that would generate sustainable income. Instead, he said, some officials appear more focused on personal gain than long-term benefits for the district.
As this controversy mounts, formal complaints have been submitted to Bong County superintendent Loleyah Hawa Norris, and the local lawmaker, as Sirleaf expressed cautious optimism that authorities will act decisively this time.
“I’m sure this time around, it will be taken seriously,” he said, though he acknowledged similar assurances were made in the past without results.
When contacted for response, both Freeman and Garyeazon declined to speak to the allegations, stating that the matter is too sensitive to be discussed as of reporting time.
As tensions rise, the unfolding situation in Tokpablee is shaping into a critical test of transparency and leadership at the local level—one that residents say could determine whether public trust can be restored or further eroded.
For now, the people of Bong Electoral District One wait—demanding answers to a question that continues to echo: where is the money?
