When he took over, Monrovia City Mayor John Siafa and his team at the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) commenced an intensive program that saw tremendous changes in the City of Monrovia.
Siafa, who enjoys the confidence and trust reposed in him after the Senate’s confirmation, oversaw the clearing of markets along major streets and a cleaning-up campaign.
However, these improvements are not forthcoming in just less than a year.
The municipal governance of Monrovia under the leadership of John Siafa is now facing criticisms due to the continual existence of a stockpile of waste and dirt on some major streets of the capital city.
The situation has reached a boiling point where major state actors have begun to voice their disappointment over the way the city’s cleanliness and waste management is being handled.
One of these actors, Edwin Melvine Snowe, Bomi County Senator, has expressed his concern regarding the city’s condition.
Last week, the Bomi County lawmaker raised alarms about the situation, labeling it a major issue that demands immediate government attention.
Speaking at the Liberian Senate on Thursday, September 5, 2024, Senator Snowe highlighted Monrovia’s current condition as unreflective of the country’s image in the 21st century.
In a harsh tone, Snowe described the city: “Monrovia is actually dirty and stinky.”
He urged his colleagues in the Senate to take decisive action to revitalize the city.
In his remarks, Snowe singled out the Palm Grove Cemetery and derelict buildings, such as the old Ministry of Education structure on Broad Street, as glaring examples of neglect.
He recommended relocating the Palm Grove Cemetery, proposing that this would significantly improve the city’s aesthetic appeal.
Senator Snowe also suggested that the government enforce measures requiring owners of abandoned buildings to either renovate their properties or face government intervention.
According to him, the importance of beautifying and developing Monrovia cannot be overstated, as he stated that the capital city should represent the pride and progress of Liberia.
“The condition of Monrovia is a poor reflection on our nation,” Senator Snowe remarked, emphasizing that the appearance and upkeep of the capital city should be a priority for government officials.
He expressed disappointment that Monrovia’s state has been largely ignored for many years and called for a renewed focus on urban development.
Senator Snowe’s appeal comes at a time when many Liberians are voicing similar concerns about the need for infrastructure improvements in the capital.
