Clarification Urged from Liberia’s Public Works Ministry Amid Corruption Allegations

Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe has accused the Ministry of Public Works of corruption involving vendor contracts in exchange for vehicles. Atty. Mohammed El-dust Fahnbulleh urges the Ministry to clarify these allegations. He defends Minister Giddings regarding a luxury vehicle claim, implying Senator Snowe’s timing raises concerns about his prior legislative oversight.

In Monrovia, Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe has made serious allegations against the Ministry of Public Works, claiming that vendors receive contracts in exchange for vehicles provided to the Ministry. In light of these allegations, Atty. Mohammed El-dust Fahnbulleh, a trained anti-corruption official and current Commissioner at the Independent National Human Rights Commission, has urged the Ministry to clarify this issue. He emphasized that public perception of corruption must not be overlooked, stating, “I hope my brother and friend take this seriously and respond to it. In anti-corruption work, perception of corruption can’t be ignored.”

Commissioner Fahnbulleh believes that it is essential for the Minister of Public Works, R. Layfette Giddings, to address these claims. He suggested that if the allegations are untrue, the Ministry has a responsibility to rectify the situation, warning that failing to respond could lead the public to believe the Senator’s accusations. Furthermore, Senator Snowe has accused Minister Giddings of operating a $45,000 vehicle funded by Liberian taxpayers.

However, Commissioner Fahnbulleh defended Minister Giddings, explaining that he should not be held accountable for the vehicle, as Giddings inherited it. He remarked, “He is not liable for any wrong. However, the Senator should direct his energy to inviting the former minister Collins to appear or send him to LACC instead.” Fahnbulleh acknowledged Snowe’s oversight authority but criticized his timing and past inaction regarding the vehicle’s procurement.

Fahnbulleh remarked, “Does Senator Snow have the right to flag the issue? Yes, in keeping with his oversight jurisdiction but regrettably, not now. He presided over the committee when the former minister procured the vehicle and neglected his Legislative oversight and kept quiet. He failed his responsibility at that time.” The Commissioner’s insights suggest a potential conflict in Snowe’s current approach, questioning whether it is a genuine effort for accountability or a posturing for media attention amid previous inaction.

The article discusses allegations made by Senator Snowe against the Ministry of Public Works regarding contract corruption. Atty. Fahnbulleh urges the Ministry to clarify these claims to preserve public trust. While he defends Minister Giddings regarding the vehicle in question, he calls out Senator Snowe for his previous oversight failures, raising questions about the timing and motive behind the Senator’s current actions. The situation highlights critical issues of accountability and governance within the Ministry.

Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com