The Ministry of Public Works in Liberia is facing intense scrutiny for its perceived sluggishness in addressing the nation’s dilapidated road infrastructure. Former Senator J. Milton Teahjay, in his first public statement since his electoral defeat in 2023, has become a vocal critic, arguing that the Ministry’s performance falls far short of the urgent need for road improvements across the country, including the capital, Monrovia. He contends that the slow pace of construction and repairs is particularly concerning given the critical state of the roads, which are significantly impacting transportation and economic development. Teahjay’s criticism comes despite acknowledging the overall progress made by President Joseph Boakai’s administration. He suggests that while the President, elected on a platform of experience and integrity, serves as the ultimate overseer, certain cabinet members are hindering progress by pursuing agendas that deviate from the President’s vision. This critique echoes the recent resignation of former Commerce and Industry Minister Amin Modad, whose actions reportedly clashed with the President’s directives.
Teahjay’s central argument focuses on the deteriorating road conditions in Monrovia and across the country, highlighting the route from Monrovia to St. Paul Bridge as a prime example of the Ministry’s failure to address critical infrastructure needs. He describes a situation where roads are so damaged that they frequently cause damage to vehicle tires, emphasizing the inadequacy of the current repair efforts. While acknowledging the potential qualifications and education of the Ministry’s staff, Teahjay insists that their performance on the ground simply does not meet expectations. He calls for a significant increase in the pace of work, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the potential for further deterioration during the impending rainy season. This, he argues, will exacerbate existing transportation challenges and further impede national development.
The former senator emphasizes the need for accountability within the Ministry of Public Works, urging them to take swift and decisive action to address the country’s infrastructure challenges. He argues that the current pace of progress is simply unacceptable, particularly given the significant impact of poor roads on the nation’s economy and the daily lives of its citizens. He stresses the importance of aligning the Ministry’s work with the President’s vision for development and emphasizes the need for a more effective and responsive approach to infrastructure development. This call for accountability underscores the growing public concern over the state of the nation’s roads and the perceived lack of adequate response from the responsible authorities.
Public debate has also centered on the allocation and disbursement of funds earmarked for road maintenance. Reports have circulated regarding a substantial sum, reportedly US$22 million, designated for this purpose. However, Minister Giddings, the head of the Ministry of Public Works, has clarified that the Ministry has not received the full amount, but rather a disbursed sum of US$9.9 million, allocated for ongoing roadwork under contracts spanning two years. This clarification aims to address public concerns regarding the management of funds allocated for road maintenance and provides context for the ongoing projects. The Minister’s statement seeks to shed light on the financial aspects of the road maintenance program and explain the current state of funding and its application to ongoing projects.
The controversy surrounding the Ministry of Public Works underscores the broader challenge of infrastructure development in Liberia. The condition of the roads reflects a systemic issue that requires a comprehensive and sustained effort to address. The public discourse, fueled by figures like former Senator Teahjay, highlights the urgent need for a more effective and responsive approach to infrastructure development. This calls into question not just the execution of projects but also the broader strategic planning and allocation of resources. The government’s response to these criticisms and its ability to demonstrate tangible progress will be crucial in restoring public confidence and ensuring sustainable development.
Furthermore, the debate highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public administration. The public’s concern over the allocation and disbursement of funds underscores the need for greater transparency in government spending and a more robust system of accountability for public officials. The Ministry’s performance, and the government’s broader response to the infrastructure crisis, will be a key indicator of its commitment to good governance and its ability to deliver on its promises to the Liberian people. The ongoing public discussion and scrutiny will likely continue to shape the government’s approach to infrastructure development and its broader commitment to addressing the nation’s pressing needs.
