MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Prince D. Kreplah has called on the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to investigate allegations of financial mismanagement and corruption within the National Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Commission (NWASHC), led by Chief Executive Officer George W.K. Yarngo. In a letter dated November 11, 2024, Kreplah, Director of Program Planning and Technical Services at NWASHC, outlined multiple instances of procurement irregularities and violations of Public Financial Management (PFM) regulations, urging immediate action to address what he described as a pattern of financial malpractice.
Kreplah alleged that $20,000 allocated for fuel to power a standby generator was entirely spent, despite NWASHC benefiting from nearly uninterrupted electricity from the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC). According to him, only 1% of the allocated fuel was necessary due to LEC’s 99% electricity supply reliability, and the commission’s records included falsified documents to justify the full expenditure.
Additionally, Kreplah pointed out irregularities concerning $7,000 allocated for generator maintenance. He argued that the limited use of the generator did not justify spending the full amount, yet the funds were reportedly expended without valid justification. Kreplah characterized these actions as clear violations of financial management best practices and an abuse of public resources.
The whistleblower raised further concerns about $30,000 allocated for cleaning materials and fumigation services. Kreplah, who frequently works extended hours at NWASHC headquarters, stated that no fumigation had occurred during the reported period. He also questioned whether cleaning materials worth even $5,000 had been supplied, suggesting that the remaining funds were misappropriated and supported by fabricated documentation.
Kreplah also disclosed irregular financial transactions involving checks issued in employees’ names under the pretext of loan repayments. He alleged that funds were withdrawn from operational accounts without obtaining the required approvals from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP). These actions, according to Kreplah, were in blatant violation of Liberia’s financial accountability framework, further eroding public trust in NWASHC’s operations.
The whistleblower criticized CEO Yarngo’s leadership, noting that similar practices had been flagged under a previous administration and investigated by the LACC. He expressed disappointment that Yarngo continued these practices, arguing that this undermined ethical leadership and accountability within the commission. Kreplah cited the principle of “clean hands” in leadership, highlighting the contradiction between Yarngo’s actions and his responsibility to uphold integrity.
The alleged corruption has cast doubt on NWASHC’s ability to fulfill its mandate of regulating and promoting water, sanitation, and hygiene services across the country. Kreplah argued that funds intended to improve public health and service delivery were being diverted for personal gain, jeopardizing the commission’s mission and credibility.
Kreplah further warned that these allegations, if ignored, could harm Liberia’s international reputation, particularly with donors and development partners. He noted that such mismanagement risks eroding the trust of stakeholders who play a crucial role in funding and supporting Liberia’s development initiatives.
Accompanying his letter were documents purportedly substantiating the claims, which Kreplah offered to present as part of any investigation. He reiterated his commitment to protecting Liberia’s public resources and called on the LACC to prioritize this matter to ensure accountability.
Kreplah also revealed that other senior staff members at NWASHC had raised concerns about these practices but were reportedly met with resistance from the leadership. He suggested that this resistance created a culture of impunity within the commission, making it difficult to address financial misconduct.
The whistleblower emphasized the wider implications of unchecked corruption at NWASHC, warning that such behavior could set a dangerous precedent for other government institutions. He argued that failing to hold individuals accountable would undermine Liberia’s broader anti-corruption efforts and the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
If substantiated, the claims against NWASHC will demand immediate corrective measures, including the prosecution of those involved and the implementation of stronger oversight mechanisms to prevent future abuses. Kreplah stressed the need for systemic reforms to ensure that public funds are used effectively and for their intended purposes.
Kreplah’s letter has kindled public discourse about the importance of whistleblower protections in Liberia. He noted that his decision to come forward was driven by a commitment to safeguarding public resources, despite the personal and professional risks involved.
As the LACC begins its investigation, it faces a crucial test of its credibility and effectiveness in tackling corruption. A swift and credible inquiry will be essential to restoring public trust and reinforcing Liberia’s commitment to good governance.
The outcome of this investigation will not only determine the future of NWASHC but also signal Liberia’s bigger willingness to address corruption and protect public funds. Kreplah’s whistleblower alert stands as a critical moment in Liberia’s fight against corruption and the safeguarding of public resources.
