The political landscape in Montserrado County’s Electoral District #3 is engulfed in controversy as incumbent Representative Sumo Mulbah accuses former Representative Ceebee Barshell and his team of embezzling nearly One Million United States Dollars earmarked for district development.
Representative Mulbah made these accusations during a town hall gathering, where he addressed constituents while distributing sanitary materials.
He alleged that the misappropriation occurred between 2017 and 2023, during Barshell’s tenure.The incumbent legislator said he has launched an investigation both within the Capitol Building and across the district upon assuming office. According to Mulbah, the probe unearthed a large-scale corruption scandal implicating the former lawmaker and his associates.
Mulbah asserted that the funds, intended for infrastructure projects like road construction and bridge building, as well as other public facilities, were squandered.
He lamented the lack of tangible development despite substantial financial allocations, including contributions from entities like China Union.Furthermore, Mulbah revealed that even funds designated for the construction of a town hall were allegedly misappropriated by select individuals, depriving the community of essential amenities.
Promising to foster unity, advocate for development, and prioritize transparency, Mulbah vowed to break the cycle of corruption and ensure accountability in his leadership.
In response, former Representative Ceebee Barshell dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated. He urged Mulbah to substantiate his claims with concrete evidence rather than engaging in what he deemed as petty politics.Barshell, founder of Barshell University, refuted Mulbah’s assertion of nearly US$1 million misappropriation, insisting that the total financial support received during his tenure did not exceed US$100,000.
For Representative Barshell encouraged Mulbah to verify the figures with official financial records.Moreover, Barshell emphasized his commitment to nation-building and educational development since stepping down from office.
The former Representative expressed reluctance to involve himself in district politics and urged Mulbah to focus on governing effectively rather than resorting to mudslinging.
Highlighting his track record of integrity and public service, Barshell recounted his refusal to join the ruling party ahead of the 2023 elections, opting instead to remain independent.
The rift between the present and past lawmakers underscores the challenges of governance and accountability in Liberia’s political landscape.
As allegations of corruption linkor the district, constituents await clarity and resolution amidst the heated exchange of accusations.
Credit: Blamo Toe/ Contributing Writer
