MONROVIA, Liberia — The Clar Hope Foundation, founded by former First Lady Clar Weah, has in recent weeks become the subject of heightened public scrutiny following reports that it is under investigation by the Assets Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT).
Established with the stated mission of providing shelter and care for destitute children and elderly Liberians, the Clar Hope Foundation—often referred to as “Clar City of Hope”—has long projected itself as a humanitarian institution. However, questions are now being raised in the public space about the foundation’s operations, funding sources, and governance, amid what authorities have described as a broader probe into assets and properties suspected to be linked to illicit activities.
According to multiple reports circulating in the media and on social platforms, investigators are examining whether the foundation has been used for purposes beyond its charitable mandate. These reports, which remain unconfirmed, allege the existence of “shady dealings” and suggest that the foundation may have been leveraged as a conduit for questionable financial transactions, including possible money laundering. No formal charges have been announced, and investigators have not publicly detailed the scope or findings of the ongoing inquiry.
Speculation has also focused on alleged links between the foundation and individuals connected to Liberia’s former political establishment. In particular, unverified claims circulating in the public domain allege that a brother of the former First Lady—who reportedly spent time in Liberia during her tenure and was linked by critics to mineral exploitation in the country’s southeast—may have used the foundation to channel illicit funds. These claims have not been substantiated by AREPT or any law enforcement body, and no individual has been formally named or charged in connection with them.
A source within the Executive Mansion, speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Liberian Post that allegations concerning the foundation’s finances and external connections are among the matters being examined by AREPT. The source stressed, however, that investigations are ongoing and cautioned against drawing conclusions before due process is completed.
Amid the controversy, the Clar Hope Foundation recently received visits from high-profile figures, including former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, a move that some observers interpreted as a gesture of moral support. The visit has sparked debate, with critics questioning the timing and optics, given the active investigation.
Similarly, reports that Senator Amara Konneh was associated with a visit to the foundation have drawn criticism from sections of the public. Detractors argue that, as a senior lawmaker and chair of a key Senate committee, Senator Konneh could be perceived as conflicted should the Legislature later be required to exercise oversight or take action related to the investigation. Supporters counter that visits do not imply interference and that all Liberians are entitled to the presumption of innocence.
As of publication, neither the Clar Hope Foundation nor its representatives have issued a detailed public statement addressing the allegations. AREPT has also remained tight-lipped, reiterating in previous communications that its mandate is to investigate thoroughly and impartially, in line with the law.
For now, the questions surrounding the Clar Hope Foundation underscore broader national debates about transparency, accountability, and the scrutiny of charitable institutions linked to political figures. Many Liberians are watching closely, awaiting clear facts and official findings that will determine whether the foundation’s work has been compromised—or whether the allegations will ultimately prove unfounded.
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