Africa-Press – Liberia. The Government of Liberia, particularly the executive headed by President Joseph Boakai, is under increased pressure here to disclose the sources of funding for an ongoing Presidential Villa valued at US$10 million in Foya, the President’s hometown.
The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Public Works, appears to be ignoring senators’ concerns regarding accountability and transparency in the controversial US$10 million Presidential Villa being constructed in Foya, Lofa County, the birthplace of President Joseph N. Boakai.
Over the weekend in the senate session, Bomi County Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe, while providing an update on his legislative break, raised concern about the source of funding being used for the project, mandating the Committee on Public Works, headed by Grand Kru County Senator Albert Chea, to provide clarification on the matter.
Senator Snowe, in his deliberations, challenged the executive and maintained that, given his connection and knowledge of the workings of the Sub-region and the Mano River Union, the project was neither constructed nor funded by the MRU.
“Presiding and colleagues, I want to bring this to your attention, even though it’s troubling, and our friend from Lofa County has yet to say anything about this. I want the Government of Liberia to provide clarification regarding the US$10 million Presidential Villa currently undergoing construction in the county. From all indications and my connection with the Mano River and the sub-region, I challenge the government that the project is not a Mano River Project. Therefore, I want the Committee on Public Works to please inquire about the project and tell this body the source of funding.” He requested.
Following Senator Snowe’s intervention, Grand Kru County Senator and Chair of the Liberian Senate’s Public Works Committee said he has requested the Minister of Public Works regarding the project funding, but the minister promised to get back to him soon.
“Senator Snowe, before I make any remark, I want to have you informed that as you were speaking, I just texted the Minister of Public Works regarding the concern, and he promised to get back to me with information regarding the source of the project and its funding. So, when the government communicates with me, I will inform you and the plenary regarding the construction.” He concluded.
However, frustratingly, since the request was made, the government has yet to provide clarification on the project’s funding source, as promised to the Committee on Public Works, which Senator Chie considers a disrespect of his oversight responsibility.
Recently, a newly constructed Presidential Villa, reportedly valued at over US$10 million, sparked controversy in Liberia, raising questions about its funding and prioritization amid national economic hardship.
The project is located in Foya District, Lofa County, the birthplace of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.
The construction was carried out by MUSNS Groups Incorporated, headed by Joe Mulbah, a known associate of the President. Edward Yamba is said to have served as the project’s Chief Engineer. He broke ground on September 10, 2024, according to Eddie D. Jarwolo, a social activist and civil society leader at Naymote Partners for Democratic Development.
The source of financing for the villa remains unclear, and the involvement, or lack thereof, of the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) has not been publicly addressed. Currently, the site is under tight security, guarded by state forces.
For More News And Analysis About Liberia Follow Africa-Press
