By Fiona Benson Kollie
Authorities at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Public Procurement Concession Commission (PPCC) have been summoned to appear before the full body of the House of Representatives on Thursday, February 19.
The House Plenary reached the decision on Tuesday, February 10, during its 9th Day Sitting of the First Quarter of the 3rd Session.
The decision followed a complaint alleging the two entities refusal to provide documents relating to projects in Grand Gedeh County.
Representative Jacob Debee, of electoral district #3, Grand Gedeh County, informed his colleagues that both Internal Affairs Minister, Francis Nyumalin, and PPCC Chief Executive Officer, Rodger Scott Johnson, requesting detail documentation on two separate projects in his district.
Something both officials have allegedly refused or delayed in providing the information to the lawmakers.
Debee said, the two officials’ refusal to provide the requested information is impeding his legislative function.
“Despite the clear legal basis and the spirit of good governance underpinning the requests, and after a wait of nearly one month, both entities have refused to submit the requested documentations. This refusal represents a direct impediment to my oversight function and denies the people of District #3 information vital to their welfare and development,” Rep. Debee stated in his communication.
Public Works, NIC and NBC
In a related development, the Plenary of the House of Representatives, has summoned the Minister of Public Works, the Chairman of the National Investment Commission (NIC), and the Managing Director of the National Bureau of Concessions (NBC) to appear before the August Body next Thursday, February 19.
The decision was triggered by a formal communication from Grand Bassa County Electoral District #5 Representative, Thomas A. Goshua, who raised concerns over the alleged failure of relevant institutions to adhere to laws and regulations established to empower Liberians, particularly in the midst of prevailing economic hardship.
Rep. Goshua said, the 55th Legislature has a responsibility to address the “bread and butter” issues affecting the wellbeing of Liberians, noting that lawmakers can no longer remain spectators, while opportunities for economic growth and empowerment of Liberians are undermined.
He further highlighted the situation in his county, where residents continue to suffer from unemployment and lack of development, despite the existence of investment, and infrastructure opportunities that could improve livelihoods.
Goshua said, such opportunities are being denied to citizens by those entrusted to implement and enforce the laws.