MONROVIA – The administration of President Joseph Boakai is facing significant criticism over the procurement of 285 earth-moving machines. Martin Kollie, a staunch advocate against bad governance, has vowed to reveal full details about the 31 units of yellow machines recently delivered.
In a social media post on Facebook, Kollie stated, “Will speak. The other ‘R’ in ARREST means Rule of Law. We want ‘Dev.’ but not at the expense of the RULE OF LAW. Article 34(d) of the Constitution and Part 5 Sec47 of the Amended Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) Law have been VIOLATED.” Kollie also criticized the placement of the President’s picture on the machines, drawing parallels with former President George Weah’s similar actions. “Yesterday, we criticized ex-Pres. George Weah for putting his picture and name on public assets and projects. Today, you are putting Pres. Joseph Boakai’s picture and name on public yellow machines and trucks. This is also WRONG. #WeahPlaybook,” he added.
Kollie condemned the government’s actions as unlawful, stating, “This is unlawful and wrong. This is how we embolden dictatorship in Africa. Do you have to put the President’s picture and name on public assets? This is wrong whether it was removed or not. The machines were unveiled with his pictures and name. Wrong is wrong.”
On Saturday, July 6, 2024, the government, represented by the Minister of State Without Portfolio, Madam Mamaka Bility, oversaw the transfer of over 31 units from the first batch of the 285 yellow machines, including trucks, at the National Port Authority (NPA). The equipment is being relocated to the Barclay Training Center (BTC) Barrack due to limited space at the port.
In a brief interview with journalists at the port, Madam Bility expressed her joy and appreciation for the arrival of the equipment. “I am honestly happy for Liberia; this is a dream come true for any well-meaning Liberian. As I said in the presentation, if you know the condition of our roads and you know the situation of Liberia, you will be happy that we have these equipment here,” she stated. Madam Bility emphasized that half of Liberia is in the bush, and many people lack access to roads and markets, which hampers agricultural development. She stressed that this initiative is part of the government’s ARREST agenda aimed at opening up the country.
The controversy surrounding the procurement process and the use of the President’s image on public assets continues to spark debate, with critics calling for adherence to the rule of law and greater transparency in government actions.
