…as an accused criminal, let Tweah refrain from public commentary until he addresses allegations against him before the court,”
–Piah tells Tweah
Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, has sharply rebuked former Minister of Finance Samuel Tweah. Piah described Tweah as an “alleged criminal” calling on him to refrain from public commentary until he addresses allegations against him currently before the court. Mr. Piah made the remarks during the Ministry of Information regular press briefing in response to Tweah’s appearance on a local radio station, where he claimed that the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) has won the national “bread-and-butter debate.” Tweah cited a reported 14 percent increase in prices since the Unity Party-led government assumed office in 2024. Piah added: Tweah lacks the moral standing to lecture the public on economic issues. He has been indicted in connection with an alleged US$13 million case, which remains under judicial review.” He suggested that until the matter is resolved, Tweah should “pay attention to the allegation and desist from engaging in public distractions.” On the substance of the bread-and-butter argument, Mr. Piah contended that claims of economic success under the CDC are inconsistent with political reality. He argued that if the CDC had truly resolved cost-of-living challenges during its tenure, public dissatisfaction would not have resulted in a transfer of power.
Piah dismissed Tweah’s comments as “excessive political talk,” referring to them as “noise, rather than constructive engagement.” He said the Unity Party-led government remains focused on governance and delivery rather than political rhetoric.
He highlighted government’s efforts of ongoing initiatives, including road connectivity projects, the deployment of heavy-duty yellow machines for infrastructure development, and progress in expanding electricity access across the country.
He further said the administration is prioritizing clear communication of its policies and achievements, urging critics to engage responsibly by presenting facts and alternatives rather than “repetitive political commentary.”
The exchange underscores the intensifying political discourse surrounding economic performance, as rising prices and living conditions continue to dominate national debate.
Source: By Michael N Baryor/Insights Liberia