Clarification Required on Corruption Allegations Against Liberia’s…

Recent allegations from Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe suggest corruption in the Ministry of Public Works, with vendors allegedly receiving contracts in exchange for vehicles. Atty. Mohammed El-dust Fahnbulleh urges the Ministry to clarify these claims. He argues that failure to address such allegations may reinforce public distrust. Commissioner Fahnbulleh also defends Minister Giddings regarding the vehicle scandal, emphasizing the need for accountability from all parties involved.

In Monrovia, recent allegations by Bomi County Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe suggest that the Ministry of Public Works may be involved in corrupt practices, awarding contracts to vendors in exchange for vehicles. Atty. Mohammed El-dust Fahnbulleh, a trained anti-corruption officer and Commissioner at the Independent National Human Rights Commission (INHRC), has urged the Ministry to clarify these claims.

Commissioner Fahnbulleh expressed the necessity for transparency from Minister R. Layfette Giddings regarding the allegations. He emphasized that the perception of corruption must be addressed, stating, “I hope my brother and friend take this seriously and respond to it. In anti-corruption work, perception of corruption cannot be ignored.” He suggested that the Ministry’s silence could lend credibility to Senator Snowe’s accusations.

Senator Snowe has also claimed that Minister Giddings possesses an expensive vehicle costing Liberian taxpayers US$45,000. However, Commissioner Fahnbulleh contended that Giddings should not bear responsibility for this issue, as he inherited the vehicle rather than purchasing it.

Fahnbulleh further remarked, “Does Senator Snow have the right to flag the issue? Yes, in keeping with his oversight jurisdiction, but regrettably, not now.” He criticized Snowe’s previous inaction while presiding over the committee responsible for the vehicle’s procurement, implying that it is inappropriate for him to raise the issue at this time. This situation places the Senator in a conflicting position regarding his legislative duties and oversight responsibilities.

The allegations of corruption against the Ministry of Public Works require urgent clarification to maintain public trust. Commissioner Fahnbulleh has called for transparency from Minister Giddings, stressing that unresolved claims can negatively impact perceptions of the Ministry. Additionally, the conflict surrounding Senator Snowe’s involvement in the issue raises questions about accountability and legislative oversight.

Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com