MONROVIA — Former Public Works Minister Ruth Coker-Collins has raised concerns over her exclusion from the Liberia 2026 Infrastructure Conference organized by the Ministry of Public Works in Ganta, Nimba County. In an open letter to current Public Works Minister R. Layfette Giddings, she emphasized that such exclusions undermine the collective expertise needed for national infrastructure development.
Addressing the minister and colleagues, Coker-Collins wrote, “As the immediate past Minister of Public Works, a professional and career engineer who has served this country diligently, I am concerned and particularly note that I was not invited to participate in this important national dialogue.”
She stressed that infrastructure development transcends political administrations, stating, “Infrastructure development is a continuous national endeavor that transcends beyond political parties and administrations. It should rather be fundamentally about our collective expertise, institutional memory, and shared commitment to Liberia’s development.”
According to Coker-Collins, national conferences like the one in Ganta are critical for knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Including former ministers and senior professionals strengthens policy continuity and institutional memory.
“Such conferences provide valuable opportunities for knowledge-sharing, reflection on lessons learned, and strengthening professional collaboration across generations of leadership within the sector,” she wrote, urging the government to adopt a more inclusive approach.
Coker-Collins made it clear that her concerns are raised in good faith. “I wish to emphasize that my concern is raised not in the spirit of criticism, but in good faith and with the hope that future national infrastructure engagements will embrace broader professional participation for the benefit of our country,” she noted.
The former minister reaffirmed her commitment to Liberia’s development, offering her expertise for continued progress in public works. “I remain fully committed to supporting Liberia’s infrastructure development in whatever capacity my experience and expertise may be useful, and I look forward to continued collaboration in the national interest,” she stated.
Her letter highlights a broader governance challenge: balancing political appointments with professional expertise in national development projects. Excluding experienced professionals risks weakening institutional knowledge and disrupting continuity in sectors such as infrastructure.
Coker-Collins’ appeal raises questions about how the current administration engages past leaders in shaping policy frameworks that require long-term planning and technical know-how.
As Liberia works to modernize roads, bridges, and public works facilities, the absence of seasoned voices like Coker-Collins could hinder strategic, sustainable outcomes. Her call serves as a reminder that national progress relies on both political direction and professional stewardship.
