MONROVIA – Nimba County District #7 lawmaker, Hon. Musa Hassan Bility, and Gbarpolu County Senator Amara M. Konneh have expressed contrasting reactions to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s recent communication regarding the controversial 285 earth-moving machines, referred to as “Yellow Machines.” The President’s letter, addressed to the Speaker of the 55th Legislature, Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, on July 9, 2024, aims to clarify the process and intentions behind acquiring the equipment.
Hon. Musa Hassan Bility criticized the President’s letter, stating, “Now that I have seen the President’s letter, I can assure you that I will never support this Yellow Machine scandal. Above all, do not lie for yourself.” Bility’s remarks highlight ongoing concerns about the transparency and legitimacy of the acquisition process.
In contrast, Senator Amara M. Konneh of Gbarpolu County expressed appreciation for the President’s communication. “I wish to express my sincere appreciation to President Boakai for the communication the Senate received from him today concerning the ‘yellow machines.’ We want to assure the President that his transparent and open communication is greatly valued,” Konneh said. However, he acknowledged that the letter raised additional points for consideration, emphasizing the need for careful examination of the content.
Konneh pointed out that the President’s letter urges lawmakers to consider the reasoning behind the machines being stored at the Freeport of Monrovia and a national security facility, despite being privately owned. He also questioned the appropriateness of the President entering into informal agreements with a close associate on behalf of the nation, seeking clarity on the associate’s identity and relationship to the President.
President Boakai’s letter, dated July 9, 2024, sought to clarify the intentions behind obtaining the equipment, which has attracted significant public and legislative scrutiny. In his communication, President Boakai assured the Legislature of the transparency and integrity guiding the acquisition process. He acknowledged the concerns raised by some members of the Legislature and emphasized that the government is adhering to principles of transparency and good faith.
The initiative to acquire these earth-moving machines originated from a conversation between President Boakai and a long-time friend committed to the ARREST Agenda. Motivated by solidarity and a desire to expedite development, this friend offered to provide the equipment based on a gentleman’s agreement. President Boakai emphasized that the process is currently in the negotiation phase, with no formal agreement or contract signed. He stated that no financial commitment has been made by the Government of Liberia (GOL) and no public funds have been utilized.
The President explained that the first batch of equipment arrived at the supplier’s expense, ensuring that the GOL has not incurred any transportation or acquisition costs. Should negotiations fail, the supplier retains the right to reclaim the equipment, sell them within the Liberian market, or re-export them. This provision ensures that the GOL is not financially or contractually burdened.
President Boakai acknowledged the Legislature’s role in the ratification process and assured that once negotiations conclude and a formal agreement is reached, the necessary documents will be promptly submitted for consideration and ratification. The controversy surrounding these “Yellow Machines” has sparked a broader discussion on transparency, governance, and the President’s anti-corruption agenda, with potential implications for President Boakai’s legacy depending on the outcome of this issue.
