MONROVIA, LIBERIA – In response to recent criticisms from some legislators regarding the Unity Party-led administration’s procurement of 285 earth-moving equipment, political commentator Vandalark R. Patricks has voiced his concerns over the legislators’ actions and their allocation of $13.2 million for “Legislative Projects” in the National Budget. Patricks argues that this move undermines the Local Government Act of 2018 and calls into question the transparency and accountability of the legislative body.
Patricks highlighted that the National Legislature, comprising both the House of Senate and Representatives, allocated $13.2 million in the National Budget for projects they labeled as “Legislative Projects” to be exclusively managed by them. He questioned the necessity of this allocation when the Country Council is responsible for managing and supervising all development projects in each county. “Why do we have the County Council that is responsible to manage and supervise all development projects in each county?” Patricks asked, emphasizing the redundancy and potential conflicts created by the legislators’ decision.
The Local Government Act of 2018 mandates the establishment of County Councils in all 15 counties to oversee local development projects. By budgeting $13.2 million for their own projects, the National Legislature is essentially bypassing this established framework. Legislators have argued that the funds will be channeled through the Liberia Agency for Community Empowerment (LACE) to implement the projects. However, Patricks questioned the true control behind these allocations, suggesting that individual lawmakers would direct LACE, thus violating procurement regulations and leading to potential misuse of funds.
Patricks pointed out the lack of historical accountability within the National Legislature, noting that the body has no record of being audited. “The National Legislature has no history of being audited. So, they actually need to be very quiet on this matter,” he asserted. He suggested that instead of resisting the importation of essential construction equipment, the legislators should seek clarity and communication with the presidency regarding the procurement process.
Furthermore, Patricks questioned the legislators’ sudden opposition to the earth-moving equipment, implying that they might have ulterior motives. He recalled instances where legislators allegedly accepted vehicles and pickups from companies in exchange for passing dubious concession agreements without consulting their constituents. “Why should they even complain now when they are on record for taking vehicles or pickups from companies to pass dubious concession agreements without consulting their people?” he asked.
Patricks emphasized the urgent need for development in Liberia, particularly in road construction, and urged the legislators to focus on facilitating such progress rather than obstructing it. He suggested that the legislators should communicate with the presidency to verify the procurement details and ensure that the equipment is used for its intended purpose. “At this time, we need development, especially road construction. Instead of resisting those machines coming into the country and getting jittered about it, I think the Senator and his colleagues should communicate with the presidency to authenticate this information and seek further clarity on this matter. What if it’s a donation?” he proposed.
Patricks’ commentary sheds light on the broader issues of transparency, accountability, and prioritization of national development over personal or political interests. His call for legislators to support essential infrastructure projects and adhere to established governance frameworks reflects a desire for a more efficient and honest approach to public service and development in Liberia.
Recently, Representative Frank Saah Foko of District #9 Montserrado County raised concerns regarding the acquisition process. Representative Foko, in a statement today, questioned the transparency and source of funding for the equipment. “285 earth moving equipment for Liberia is a good venture but a questionable source,” Foko wrote, emphasizing his role as a legislator to commend commendable actions and condemn questionable ones.
Foko concluded his statement by announcing his intention to write to his legislative colleagues to summon key government officials, including Minister Mamaka Bility, Finance Minister Boima Kamara, Public Works Minister Roland Giddings, and Minister of State for Presidential Affairs Sylvester Grisby, to address these concerns.
For his part, Sinoe County Senator, Cllr, Senator Chea expressed concerns following a newscast by ELBC that reported the government’s acquisition of the equipment. “Laudable! But while that is good news, we must celebrate with caution,” Senator Chea wrote. He questioned the transparency and accountability of the procurement process, noting the lack of information about the source of funding for these machines, which are worth millions of USD.
Senator Chea highlighted that there was no mention of this procurement in the national budget, no loan agreement, and no known grant or donation. He emphasized that if the equipment were donated, the President is obliged to disclose the sources to the Liberian people. “Disappointingly, some of my Senate colleagues don’t think transparency and accountability matter here; some argue that the equipment will make our highways pliable, so nothing else matters,” Chea lamented. He pledged that the Senate would uphold its oversight responsibilities and ensure that the Executive is held accountable.
