MONROVIA– Following former Finance Minister Samuel Tweah’s latest announcement of his intention to initiate a legal proceeding against Stanton Witherspoon, a public figure, who publicly accused him of poor economic management, alleged bribery attempt and misconduct, Witherspoon has broken his silence, raising serious questions about Tweah’s leadership and alleged behind-the-scenes dealings.
Speaking on the Spoon Talk platform, Witherspoon former CEO of the Spoon Network publicly criticized Tweah’s tenure at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, accusing him of poor fiscal management and contributing to Liberia’s current economic struggles. His comments followed a press conference in which Tweah defended his legacy and threatened legal actions over defamation claims.
“You destroyed our country,” Witherspoon declared, asserting that his criticisms are not personal but stem from concern for Liberia’s future. “This is not a grudge; I’m simply telling the truth.”
Witherspoon recounted a previous conference call involving several personnel, including Keff Hassan and ruling party stalwart Acarous Gray. He noted that Tweah was unexpectedly added to the call without his consent. “I told them I wasn’t going to talk to Samuel Tweah,” Witherspoon said, describing how he disconnected after being pressured to engage in the discussion.
More alarming, however, was Witherspoon’s allegation that an intermediary whom he did not name claimed Tweah had offered money to facilitate a conversation or settlement. “I said, ‘What? How much are you asking for?’” Witherspoon recalled, condemning the offer and refusing to entertain any negotiations that involved money. “I don’t want to get into that conversation,” he said firmly.
He further promised to reveal more details about a critical meeting where such discussions allegedly occurred, indicating that additional revelations about the individuals involved are forthcoming.
Witherspoon did not mince words about who he believes should be held accountable. “If President George Weah refuses to take action against Samuel Tweah, he will bear the responsibility for what Tweah has done,” he said.
The exchange between Witherspoon and Tweah adds to a growing wave of political tension and public scrutiny over the past administration’s economic performance and transparency. As the dust settles, many Liberians are now calling for a full investigation into the claims raised, demanding that truth and accountability prevail in the interest of national healing and development.
It can be recalled, in a bold move following recent accusations, former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweh has announced his intention to initiate a global investigation against Stanton Witherspoon, a public figure who publicly accused him of misconduct.
The allegations revolve around the purported misuse of a US$30 million fund allocated for COVID-19 relief efforts aimed at supporting small businesses and underprivileged communities in Liberia.
During a press conference held on July 4, 2025, at the CDC National Party Headquarters in Congo Town, Tweh vehemently denied the claims made by Witherspoon, asserting that the remarks were not only false but damaging to his reputation. “If the government wants to politicize this, we will politicize it,” he declared, indicating his readiness to fight back against perceived political attacks.
Tweh emphasized his confidence in the judicial system, stating, “I am also not afraid to go to jail for the wrong reasons.” His comments reflect a defiant stance against any potential legal implications stemming from the allegations.
The former Finance and Development Planning Minister’s commitment calling for transparency and accountability in the face of these accusations signals his intent to clear his name and possibly hold Witherspoon accountable for what he describes as defamatory statements.
The controversy surrounding the COVID-19 fund has raised significant public interest, with citizens demanding clarity on how the funds were utilized during the pandemic. Tweh’s announcement of a global investigation aims not only to address the specific allegations against him but also to restore faith in the handling of funds intended to assist the vulnerable populations in Liberia.
As the situation develops, many are watching closely to see how the legal proceedings unfold and whether the investigation will bring to light further information about the management of the COVID-19 relief funds in Liberia.
