In a recent report, the ruling Unity Party of Liberia has addressed grave allegations of corruption against Commerce Minister Amin Modad, who claims these accusations are unfounded. Modad has publicly defended himself against reports suggesting that he was involved in the purchase of a vehicle costing $150,000 from MedTech Scientific, a firm alleged to have engaged in bribery and received favorable treatment from the Liberia Revenue Authority regarding duty exemption. Instead, Modad asserts that the actual cost of the vehicle, including shipping, was $98,000. Furthermore, he denies that any personal benefit was derived from this transaction, maintaining that the acquisition was conducted on behalf of the Ministry of Commerce and all legitimate procurement processes were adhered to.
The Unity Party has reiterated that Modad should be given a chance to present his side of the story without prejudice. Party chairman Rev. Luther Tarpeh has expressed the party’s commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that the allegations cannot simply be dismissed. He emphasized the importance of addressing corruption allegations seriously, highlighting the public’s concern over the intimate relationship between a government official and a private entity when it comes to financial transactions. Tarpeh has encouraged Modad to engage with the public and clarify any misunderstandings surrounding the situation, which he believes could define the party’s commitment to integrity.
Modad insists that he has nothing to hide regarding his assets and the alleged vehicle purchase. He clarified that his vehicle is a government asset, not a personal possession, and stated that he continues to cover the costs associated with operating it out of his own funds. In his account, Modad explained that the Ministry had engaged the Liberia Revenue Authority to assist in procuring three vehicles because there were no allocated budget funds for motor vehicles. He further clarified that the procurement process had started before the enactment of a law restricting the price for ministerial vehicles.
Rev. Tarpeh has reiterated that the Unity Party will take the allegations against Modad seriously and will act if evidence of wrongdoing is confirmed. He stressed that the party leadership remains committed to addressing the concerns of all Liberians, particularly in the face of corruption. The chairman acknowledged Modad’s contributions to the party’s past successes and indicated that the party must remain vigilant in the fight against corruption to maintain public trust. The push for accountability comes against a backdrop of a societal expectation for a government that addresses the longstanding issues of corruption and infrastructure failures in Liberia.
Moreover, Rev. Tarpeh’s calls for a measured response from the public reflect a broader societal challenge within Liberia, where individuals are often deemed guilty before an official adjudication. He advocates for the presumption of innocence and urges individuals to allow Minister Modad the chance to address the allegations against him. The narrative surrounding this incident is not just one of political fallout but speaks to deeper distinctions between public accountability and political loyalty as the country strives for a more responsible governance model.
In closing, the Unity Party’s handling of the situation could have lasting implications for its standing with the public. As the party seeks to navigate these allegations while fostering an environment conducive to civic trust and governmental efficacy, the focus remains sharply on maintaining principles of accountability. The ongoing discourse regarding Modad’s case will likely influence public perception and the Unity Party’s credibility as it embarks on various initiatives to counteract corruption and ensure that it lives up to its electoral promises of reform and change in Liberia. The subsequent developments in this case will be critical for the party as it strives to fulfill the aspirations of the ordinary Liberians who have placed their trust in the Unity Party government.
