Monrovia – March 18, 2024: Today we want to bring to your attention a matter of utmost concern regarding the recent contract awarded by the Ministry of Public Works in the sum of Twenty-One Million United States Dollars (US$21 Million). While we fully support the much-needed rehabilitation and construction of roads across the country, it is imperative that these projects are executed in full compliance with the laws of Liberia.

The recent actions of the Public Works Ministry have an odor of venality and nefariousness since in fact it violates Article 34(d) and subsection III which states that “no loan shall be raised or guaranteed without the authority of legislative enactment”.

Additionally, the infringement of the Amended and Restated Public Procurement and Concession Act of 2005 further demonstrates a lack of adherence to the rule of law. It is fundamental that any government institution issuing contracts must ensure that funding is available before awarding such contracts, as outlined in the Public Financial Management (PFM) and the PPCC Act which also place emphases on international and national open competitive bidding processes for contract ceiling for procurement of goods, services and works.

In the case of contracts for the procurement of goods, US$500,000. In the case of contracts for the procurement of services, US$200,000. In the case of contracts for the procurement of works, US$1,000,000.

The absence of an approved budget, except for the Two Million United States Dollars (US$2,000,000) allotted for Policy Priorities (100-Day Deliverables) out of the approved Forty-One Million United Starts Dollars (US$41,000,000) requested in February, raises questions about the source of funding for these contracts awarded by the Ministry of Public Works.

In a few days, we will seek the indulgence of the Liberian Senate to summon the Ministers of Public Works, Finance, Justice, and the Executive Director of PPCC to provide explanations for the blatant violations of the constitution and the PPCC laws. It is crucial that appropriate actions be taken to address this matter and ensure accountability.

Thank you for your usual attention.

Signed:

Hon. Nathaniel F. McGill

Senator, Margibi County