By Archie Boan
The 55th House of Representatives has summoned Public Works Minister Roland Giddings and his technical team to appear before plenary next Tuesday to explain the ministry’s decision to halt construction on the Jor River Bridge in Bong County.
The move follows a communication from Representative J. Marvin Cole of District #3, who raised concerns that the stop-order represents a major setback to local development. Speaking during Thursday’s session, Rep. Cole said the ministry’s action “threatens progress in the region and undermines efforts to ease transportation challenges faced by citizens.”
Rep. Cole noted that the Citizens Movement for Change (CMC), led by political leader Musa Hassan Bility, had already secured over US$500,000 to fund the project—an initiative intended to resolve a four-decade-old transportation problem that has caused delays and fatalities along the Jor River corridor.
Describing the stop-order as “unnecessary,” the lawmaker warned against the “weaponization of government functionaries” and urged colleagues to act in the best interest of their constituents.
Meanwhile, CMC leader Musa Hassan Bility has threatened to relocate the project to Lofa County if the impasse is not resolved.
Once completed, the Jor River Bridge is expected to significantly improve transportation and economic activity between Bong and neighboring counties, a development long awaited by local residents.
Minister Giddings and his team are expected to clarify the ministry’s position when they appear before the House next week.
