A leaked letter addressed to the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), now in possession of this newspaper, exposes a troubling pattern of alleged financial malpractice and systemic corruption at the Liberia Medicines and Health Products Regulatory Authority (LMHRA).
The whistleblower report, sent to both the LACC and the General Auditing Commission (GAC), accuses top executives, including the Managing Director (MD) and Deputy Managing Director (DMD), of misusing public funds, engaging in conflicts of interest, and bypassing proper hiring procedures.
Millions in Public Funds under Scrutiny
Dubious Insurance Scheme:
The report alleges that Medicare Insurance Corporation has been receiving monthly remittances from LMHRA totaling thousands of U.S. dollars. Notably, the MD and DMD reportedly benefit from full insurance coverage through the same provider, raising concerns over conflict of interest and abuse of office.
Illegal Lease Payment:
Despite explicit opposition from the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) and the Ministry of Finance, a check for US$58,500 was issued to Mr. Osumane B. Kamara, an associate of the MD, for new office space.
This transaction, allegedly executed without approval from the board or ministry, is described as a blatant misuse of public funds and a violation of procurement laws.
Waste Disposal Contracts:
Although LMHRA is mandated to handle the disposal of expired medical products, the authority is accused of outsourcing this function under questionable contracts. The report states that monthly payments of US$10,000 have been made to companies such as Community United for Sustainable Services and Arrow Group-allegedly without PPCC clearance.
Ghost Vehicle Rentals & Fake Construction Projects:
Allegations include payments for vehicle rentals and construction projects lacking supporting documentation or evidence of work done. The absence of procurement records, technical assessments, or site validations points to potential fraud.
Payments to Personal Associates:
The whistleblower claims multiple payments were made to individuals closely linked to the MD and DMD without contracts or legitimate justification, suggesting nepotism and diversion of public funds.
Unapproved Hiring Spree:
The MD and DMD reportedly bypassed the General Services Agency (GSA) and LMHRA Board to appoint 19 new staff to key positions, including Director of Finance and Controller. These unauthorized hires allegedly replaced existing employees, violating official hiring protocols.
Legal Implications & Call for Action
The report states these actions contravene:
The Public Financial Management Law, due to unauthorized spending and lack of transparency.
The Code of Conduct for Public Officials, citing conflicts of interest and unethical behavior.
The LMHRA Act, for exceeding the agency’s legal mandate.
The whistleblower recommends an immediate independent audit covering the last two years, a formal investigation by the LACC and GAC, and suspension of implicated officials pending the outcome.
Lawmakers Step In
Separately, the House of Representatives has acknowledged receipt of a resolution from LMHRA’s Board, highlighting a violation of the LMHRA Act of 2010 by G2 Pharmacy.
In a letter dated August 8, 2025, Speaker Richard N. Koon directed the Ministry of Finance to suspend all disbursements to G2 Pharmacy until the legislative investigation concludes.
When contacted for comment via WhatsApp, Abraham Morris, Head of Communications at the LMHRA who earlier promised to response, did not respond before the publication of this news story.
