Africa-Press – Liberia. The final report detailing the response and relief efforts following the tragic Totota fire incident is completed and awaiting formal approval from the Bong County Legislative Caucus, according to Mr. Tornorlah Varpilah, Chairman of the Totota Disaster Committee.
In an appearance on Super Bongese Radio on Friday, Mr. Varpilah provided critical updates on the committee’s work, emphasizing the group’s dedication to transparency and responsible management of relief efforts.
“The committee has concluded its report, and we are only waiting on the County Caucus to approve it before releasing it to the public,” he stated. “Every member on this committee is a person of integrity, and we remain committed to ensuring full accountability.”
The Totota fire, which occurred several months ago, left a devastating toll—claiming lives, injuring many, and sparking an outpouring of support both locally and internationally. The committee was established to coordinate aid, manage donations, and provide ongoing support to survivors and bereaved families.
Addressing public concerns over how financial support was managed, Mr. Varpilah clarified that funds provided by the World Bank were not handed over in cash. Instead, the funds were used to settle the medical expenses of victims directly at hospitals including Phebe, ELWA, Redemption, JFK, and others.
“There has been no mishandling of funds. Every dollar received has been directed towards helping victims,” Mr. Varpilah assured.
In response to mounting pressure from some concerned citizens calling for a peaceful protest over delays in publicizing the report, Mr. Varpilah urged for patience and understanding. He appealed for the suspension of any planned demonstrations, stressing the emotional strain it could inflict on grieving families.
“We appeal to those considering protests to disengage at this time so we don’t distract or distress the families who are still grieving,” he said.
On the medical front, Mr. Varpilah disclosed that one of the severely injured survivors currently receiving treatment at the 14 Military Hospital is being prepared for advanced plastic surgery overseas. This, he explained, is part of the committee’s continued commitment to ensuring comprehensive care for the victims.
When questioned about remaining financial resources, Mr. Varpilah confirmed that the committee currently holds six million Liberian Dollars in its account. However, he acknowledged some uncertainty regarding the exact balance in U.S. Dollars, stating that a detailed financial breakdown will be part of the final report.
As the county awaits the Caucus’s final greenlight for the report’s release, Mr. Varpilah reiterated the committee’s dedication to full transparency and accountability.
“We will not hide anything from the public. Once the report is approved, every detail—including finances, aid distribution, and future support plans—will be made available for public scrutiny,” he concluded.
The Totota Disaster Committee remains a focal point for relief coordination and continues to oversee critical post-tragedy efforts, with the ultimate goal of restoring dignity and hope to those affected by one of Bong County’s most harrowing recent disasters.
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