In a significant move highlighting employees’ concerns, within the Ministry of Transport, the House of Representatives has directed its Committee on Transport to investigate a contentious concession agreement reportedly forged between the Ministry of Justice and Liberia Traffic Management (LTM). This decision follows a formal petition presented by over 17 senior staff members and directors of the Ministry.
On Thursday, the concerned employees demonstrated their resolve by staging a peaceful walk to the Capitol Building, where they personally submitted their petition to House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon. The petition outlines serious allegations regarding the agreement, which the employees argue poses a threat to the operational and legal integrity of the Ministry of Transport.
The petitioners assert that the concession agreement, allegedly brokered with the involvement of Liberia National Police Director Gregory Coleman, breaches Section 33.5 of the Executive Law. This law grants the Ministry of Transport exclusive authority to govern and oversee transportation-related activities across Liberia.
Among the alarming claims made in the petition, employees highlighted several potential consequences of the agreement:
The possibility of laying off over 265 staff members from the Ministry.
A projected diversion of approximately US$275 million in rightful government revenue over a duration of 25 years.
An assertion that the Ministry of Transport could independently generate around US$12 million annually without entering into such disputed agreements.
Labeling LTM as a “private terrorist-financing group,” the petitioners questioned the legitimacy of the concession agreement, emphasizing the dire legal, economic, and humanitarian repercussions that could ensue if the agreement remains intact.
In response to the petition, Speaker Koon communicated his commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the employees, assuring them that the matter would be promptly brought before the plenary for legislative evaluation.
Following considerable discussion, the House resolved to empower the Transport Committee to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, with a report expected within one week. The petition concluded with a fervent appeal for legislative action to “review, scrutinize, and revoke” the concession agreement, reinforcing the necessity to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the interests of public servants in Liberia.
