MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Mr. Anderson Miamen, Executive Director of the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), today, Tuesday, May 28, joined the growing debate demanding transparency and accountability in the procurement of 285 earth-moving equipment by the administration of President Joseph Boakai. This procurement, facilitated through a partnership with South African millionaire Robert Gumede, has raised concerns due to Gumede’s reputation for corruption.
Mr. Miamen in a statesment posted on social media emphasized the need for transparency, integrity, and due diligence in government contracting and reporting, particularly in the context of the ongoing road equipment saga. While the acquisition of the 285 pieces of equipment for road and other productive activities is a positive development, Mr. Miamen stressed that the process must be transparent, accountable, and performed with integrity and due diligence by relevant state and non-state actors.
“The Government of Liberia needs to immediately speak out on this matter and provide the needed information to the public,” Mr. Miamen stated. “The longer it stays without addressing the matter, the more harm it causes the government in terms of people being suspicious about the arrangement or deal.”
On Friday, May 24, 2024, at the recently concluded three-day Cabinet Retreat held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, the Minister of State Without Portfolio, Madam Mamaka Bility, announced that the government of Liberia had procured 285 earth-moving equipment specifically for infrastructure development. Since this announcement, there has been significant condemnation due to concerns about the transparency and accountability of the procurement process.
Critics argue that the procurement deal with Gumede, given his notorious reputation, underscores the need for a transparent and accountable process to ensure public trust. The Unity Party government has yet to issue a statement addressing the concerns raised by CENTAL and other stakeholders.
The call for transparency in this procurement process highlights the broader need for the Boakai administration to adhere to principles of good governance. As the government moves forward with its infrastructure development plans, ensuring that all processes are transparent and accountable will be crucial in maintaining public confidence and achieving sustainable development goals.
