By: Archie Boan
Representative J. Clarence T. Banks of Electoral District #2 Grand Bassa County, has raised concerns over widespread failure of development projects and the alleged mismanagement of funds intended for communities within his district.
Representative Banks disclosed that upon assuming office in 2024, he initiated a review of projects allocated to District #2 under the previous administration. According to him, the findings revealed a troubling pattern of incomplete and abandoned projects, despite significant financial disbursements to contractors through county-managed mechanisms.
Among the projects cited are the construction of bridges in Blaygbahn, St. John, and Diahn; a clinic in Boglay; and a market facility in Yeablo. Notably, the Diahn Bridge project reportedly received full payment of US$322,559.83, yet remains unfinished. Similar concerns were raised about other projects where substantial portions of the contract sums were paid without corresponding delivery.
“In some instances, there is no visible evidence that contractors were ever mobilized to the sites, despite the release of public funds,” Representative Banks stated.
In addition to failed infrastructure projects, the lawmaker drew attention to the handling of Social Development Funds generated from concession-related agreements within District #2. He alleged that a total of US$69,600, collected between 2024 and 2025 for community development purposes, was misused by a group of county and district officials.
Representative Banks further alleged that a statutory superintendent named Michael Van Brown opened a personal bank account into which community development funds were directed, a practice he described as inconsistent with public financial management laws and basic principles of accountability.
The lawmaker also questioned the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of a US$38,000 case previously filed before the Grand Bassa County court, suggesting that the matter was discontinued without adequate explanation or restitution to the affected communities.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Unity Party led government to strengthen accountability across the public sector, Representative Banks emphasized that effective governance must be reflected at the county and district levels, where development funds are implemented.
“Once public resources are allocated for district development, all officials involved have a duty to account fully for their use,” he said.
Representative Banks disclosed that he has personally invested over US$700,000 in heavy equipment, fuel, and labor to rehabilitate roads within District #2, which he said underscores the urgent need for transparency and responsible management of public and community resources.
Following his formal complaints, the General Auditing Commission has acknowledged his request for a comprehensive audit of projects in District #2, while the Assets Recovery Task Force has also accepted a petition to investigate and recover any funds found to have been misappropriated. Both processes are expected to commence in January.
Representative Banks vowed to pursue all legal and administrative avenues to ensure accountability, stressing that development resources must directly benefit the citizens for whom they are intended.
