GBARNGA, Bong – Bong’s Sen. Prince K. Moye has criticized the government for prematurely announcing that it was bringing 285 road construction equipment into the country before completing the necessary legal formalities.
Moye, who managed the Unity Party campaign during the 2023 election season that brought Pres. Joseph Boakai to power, described the public pronouncement by Mamaka Bility, minister of state without portfolio, as a mistake.
He expressed disappointment in the government’s careless handling of the information surrounding the acquisition of the equipment fleet, noting that the Unity Party had heavily criticized the previous administration for similar actions. He questioned why Bility would follow the same path, which could potentially mislead the public.
At the administration’s first cabinet retreat, Bility announced that 285 sets of road equipment had been handed to the government and were en route to Liberia.
This announcement was accompanied by a video showing the machines emblazoned with Pres. Boakai’s photograph and the Liberian flag. It prompted applause but also sparked concerns among the public and key figures within the Unity Party Alliance regarding the source of funds for the purchase and whether it adhered to public procurement regulations.
After a public blowback and questing about the legitimacy of the equipment acquisition, Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah struggled to clarify the situation regarding the 285 yellow machines. He stated that no final decision had been made on acquiring the equipment.
“[The] government did not decide and has not made a decision on the earth-moving equipment,” Piah said. “There was only a video that came out unveiling the vehicles that the government is looking at but has not decided to have yellow machines, and once it is concluded, that will be announced.”
The information minister explained that the presentation by Bility was only intended to showcase the government’s plans, but no concrete decision had been made. He assured that all lawful procedures would be followed before any decision regarding the machines is finalized.
The situation has raised concerns about the administration’s communication and decision-making processes, with critics urging more caution and transparency in future announcements.
Meanwhile, during his radio appearance in Gbarnga, Sen. Moye said Min. Bility should have waited for the arrival of the equipment in the country before making any announcements. The senator said the premature announcement created a “false impression.” He questioned who Bility was attempting to impress.
Moye revealed that the National Legislature had allocated 25 percent of the National Road Fund in the current National Budget to purchase road maintenance equipment for all counties. He said while the government has been taking steps to address critical challenges, particularly concerning road issues in the country, the pronouncement by Bility was premature.
Featured photo by Moses Bailey
