Liberia News:Commerce Minister’s ‘Rescue Jeep’

By: Jamesetta D Williams

Liberia-Becoming a public servant has since been hankered by current Commerce Minister Amin Modad evidenced by litany of political activities he has been involved in, the latest being the chairman of the Unity Party, reportedly using his own resources to support the Party.

Though dethroned as party chair before last year’s elections won by the UP, Mr. Modad remained and positioned himself as a force to content with, and became a face of the party’s campaign undertakings under the highly resonated slogan “Rescue Mission,” which suggests that the party wanted state power not to do the same thing they accused past administrations of, but to seek the interest of citizens in their dealings and actions.

In the same vein, many political experts believe appointing him to the position of Commerce Minister by President Boakai is a recognition of his contributions to the party’s success at the polls – a good for good situation. 

However, latest happenings suggest otherwise, according to concerned Liberians, an assessment that appears to be supported by the alleged purchase of luxurious 2024 Chevrolet Suburban valued at over US$121,000 by Commerce Minister Modad.

The Commerce Minister’s alleged acquisition of the luxurious 2024 Chevrolet Suburban valued at over US$121,000 has caused storm of controversy in both social and political landscape.

Critics including political commentator, Martin Kollie, have taken to social media to denounce the minister’s vehicle purchase, asserting it digest the disconnect between government officials and the struggling populace.

In a scathing post, Kollie highlighted the irony of a government minister enjoying a luxury car while thousands of Liberian families grapple with exorbitant education costs and civil servants earn an average of only US$150 a month.

He posed crucial questions about the minister’s priorities and the overall mission of the current administration, suggesting that the government’s promise of “Rescue” has been undermined by such flamboyancy.

Martin Kollie said in he accused Minister Modad of having a conflict of interest, particularly pointing out that the funds allegedly used to purchase the vehicle originated from MedTech, a company under scrutiny for purported corrupt practices.

He made a bold assertion that this lavish expenditure undermines the hard-fought rights and resources of ordinary Liberians.

Min. Modad, however has vehemently refuted these accusations. In a social media statement, he insisted that his integrity remains intact, emphasizing that the vehicle in question is associated with the Ministry of Commerce and not purchased for personal use.

He stressed that all documentation related to the vehicle indicates it is owned by the government, thereby reinforcing his viewpoint that this asset is meant to enhance the ministry’s operational capacity rather than serve as a personal luxury.

With the criticism, Modad defended his tenure, citing significant improvements in revenue generation for the ministry and efforts to stabilize the prices of essential commodities, such as rice, Liberia’s staple food. He also noted that he has cut his salary by 40% and has refused other compensations, claiming to prioritize public service over personal gain.

Adding to the commotion, allegations have surfaced regarding the vehicle’s provenance. Journalist Sekou Sheriff suggested that Modad purchased the Suburban from AB B. Fofana, a purported dealer of stolen vehicles with connections across West Africa. This claim has raised further questions about the minister’s judgment and ethical standing.

While Modad continues to assert his commitment to transparency and public accountability, the public led by advocacy from critics like Kollie, is calling for an independent investigation into the vehicle’s purchase and the minister dealings with MedTech.

This ongoing controversy may signal deeper issues of governance and accountability in Liberia, a nation still navigating the repercussions of its recent economic hardships.

As reactions build both in support of and against Minister Modad, the situation remains tense, with many citizens longing for a government that genuinely reflects their struggles and aspirations.