By Rufus Divine Brooks Jr.
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Montserrado County District #13 Representative Edward Flomo over the weekend delivered a major round of assistance to several communities in his district, even as he sharply accused the ruling Unity Party (UP) of withholding development funds meant for his constituency.
Residents of Plumkor, Famous Island, and Bassa Town received building materials, food supplies, and direct cash assistance, all financed personally by the lawmaker. Rep. Flomo said the gesture was necessary due to what he described as ongoing political and financial constraints allegedly imposed by the government.
Addressing residents during the tour, Rep. Flomo said the ruling establishment has consistently frustrated his efforts as an opposition lawmaker. He claimed he has “not received a dime” of the District Development Funds (DDF) allotted for District #13, forcing him to use his own income to respond to local needs.
“We have been operating under immense pressure,” he said. “I have not seen the official allocation for District Development. Therefore, I will continue to support my people with my salary, despite the many challenges.”
The lawmaker linked the slowed pace of development in the district to what he described as political instability within the House of Representatives. He referenced the recent leadership struggle involving former Speaker Cllr. Fonati Koffa and current Speaker Richard Koon, saying the impasse has disrupted legislative operations and stalled funding processes.
Rep. Flomo further accused the Unity Party of attempting to claim credit for projects he initiated and successfully secured funding for in the 2024 national budget, alleging that the ruling party is strategically completing those projects to bolster its image.
Despite what he characterized as political propaganda targeting his work, Rep. Flomo assured residents that his service record “remains unblemished,” emphasizing that he remains confident in his political standing in the district.
“They can use propaganda, but my unbeatable and unbreakable records will forever be remembered,” he said. “I can assure the residents that I do not have a compellator within this district.”
The donations—comprising essential construction materials, food items, and cash—were received with appreciation by community members, many of whom echoed concerns about stalled development initiatives. The lawmaker’s intervention, they said, offered timely relief amid growing frustrations over alleged delays in government-funded projects.
