Monrovia, Liberia — The Ministry of Public Works has issued a formal warning to Bong County District #3 Representative, Hon. Marvin Cole, over a recent unauthorized groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a bridge in the county.
In an official communication dated October 6, 2025, and signed by Minister Roland Layfette Giddings, the Ministry stated that the event was conducted without prior notification to the Ministry and without the submission of required technical documents, including the bridge design for review and approval.
“The Ministry acknowledges reports of a groundbreaking ceremony recently held for the construction of a bridge in Bong County, which was undertaken without prior notice to the Ministry and without the submission of the bridge design for technical review and approval,” the letter read.
While the Ministry commended the intent behind the project, citing the importance of improving local infrastructure and community development, it emphasized that such actions fall under the legal jurisdiction of the Ministry. Citing the Executive Law of Liberia, Minister Giddings stressed that all public infrastructure works must be planned, approved, and supervised by the Ministry.
“This action constitutes an interference with the statutory mandate of the Ministry of Public Works,” the letter continued, reiterating that all infrastructure initiatives must comply with established engineering standards, environmental safeguards, and fiscal accountability protocols.
The Ministry has therefore instructed Representative Cole and his team to halt any construction activities or preparations until the appropriate design documents are submitted and reviewed, and formal approval is granted.
“No construction activities or any semblance of mobilization toward commencing the bridge construction should proceed,” Minister Giddings warned, noting that the Ministry stands ready to offer full technical support once the necessary documentation is in place.
The communication was also copied to House Speaker Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon and Bong County Superintendent Madam Loleyah Hawa Nomis.
