The Plenary of the House of Representatives has summoned Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) Managing Director, Mohammed Ali.
Ali is invited to appear before the August Body on Tuesday to provide clarification on recent public statements concerning water access and revenue collection.
The decision was reached on Thursday during the 4th Day Sitting of the 2nd Quarter of the 3rd Session of the House of Representatives. Plenary’s action was triggered by two separate communications submitted by Nimba County Electoral Districts #7 and #9 Representatives, Musa Hassan Bility and Taa Wongbe.
In their communications addressed to Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, the lawmakers requested the appearance of Mr. Ali to explain statements made during recent media engagements regarding the status of water accessibility and payment compliance.
Ali had informed reporters recently that over 17,000 homes in Monrovia are connected to running water, and that approximately 76 percent of the population have access to basic water supply.
He also disclosed that more than 53 percent of water users are not paying their bills.
On that note, the lawmakers observed that the statements have generated widespread public discussions, and differing interpretations regarding what constitutes “basic water access,” the distinction between household connectivity and reliable water service delivery, as well as concerns surrounding the sustainability of LWSC operations amid high reported rates of nonpayment.
Given the importance of water access to public health, infrastructure development, and national growth, Plenary agreed that Ali should appear before the House to provide further clarification, and updates on the current state of the water sector.
The House of Representatives said, it remains committed to ensure transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery in institutions providing essential public services.
In a related news, Plenary has mandated its Committee on Gender and Social Protection to invite the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection along with her deputies.
the officials are to appear before the Committee on Monday to provide clarity on the growing incidents of bullying, harassment, abuse, and gender-based violence affecting women and children.