FOR APPROVING MULTIPLE CONTRACTS AMOUNTING TO USD$22.4 MILLION WITHOUT LEGISLATURE CONSENT
Monrovia, Liberia – The national Legislature has heard a plea for mercy from the Ministry of Public Works for their failure to follow the proper processes when awarding contracts.
On Tuesday, May 28, 2024, the Liberian Senate pardoned the Ministry following the controversial awarding of contracts for over 22.4 million to multiple corporations for the construction of roads throughout the nation without the consent of the legislature.
The Public Works Minister was reportedly accused by Senators Abraham Darius Dillon, Nathaniel McGill, Amara Konneh, and Simeon Taylor of issuing contracts to construction companies without the approval of the 55th Legislature.
The Senate Joint Committee on Public Works and Judiciary revealed errors in Public Works Minister Roland Giddings’ awarding contracts to roughly ten firms for road rehabilitation without plenary knowledge.
The Joint Committee, led by Senators Albert Chie and Augustine Chea, maintained that the entity’s unilateral choice was in the best interests of the nation notwithstanding the errors made in contract awarding.
The rainy season is rapidly approaching, according to Senator Albert Chie, Chair of the Public Works Committee. He noted that challenges may arise if contracts are not given to contractors to repair roads throughout the nation.
The Liberian Senate plenary approved the committee’s report urging that august body to approve the Ministry of Public Works’ plans.
