By Fiona Benson Kollie
The House of Representatives has cited the management of the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) to appear before its Plenary to explain about allegations of illegal occupation and obstruction of a legislative development project in Montserrado County District #6.
The decision was triggered by a formal communication from District #6 Representative, Samuel R. Enders, who raised concerns about the company’s actions affecting the construction of a district office complex to serve the constituency.
In his communication to the leadership, Rep. Enders wrote that the project designed to include a resource center, computer learning center, children’s playground, community and district meeting hall, and a multipurpose graduation hall, has been stalled for over two years due to the alleged unauthorized actions of CRBC.
According to Rep. Enders, the company has “illegally trespassed and occupied the project site, altered the structure, and prevented the completion of the facility without any lawful justification.”
He said, the project was nearing completion, requiring only roofing and finishing touches before the reported intervention in 2024.
Enders further disclosed that upon assuming office, he was presented with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during the administration of former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, under the stewardship of former Youth and Sports Minister Eugene Nagbe.
The agreement, endorsed by district elders, the district development council, and community leaders, authorized the construction of the district office.
Rep. Enders also said that the continued occupation and interference by the company, have significantly impeded his legislative functions, and denied residents access to critical community services, particularly educational and civic engagement opportunities.
Additionally, the communication raised public health concerns regarding environmental pollution allegedly caused by the company’s operations in the SKD Sports Complex Community, and surrounding areas.
Residents, including children, are reportedly experiencing respiratory challenges due to dust and chemical exposure.
The House’s leadership, has therefore, mandated the management of CRBC to appear and clarify the circumstances surrounding the occupation of the project site, including who authorized the actions, the rationale behind altering the structure, and the environmental impact of their activities on the affected communities.
The House said, it remains committed to protecting public infrastructure projects and ensuring that the rights and welfare of citizens are upheld.