In an effort to review the concession signed with the Liberia Transport Management Incorporated (LMTI), members of the 55th Legislature have established a specialized committee to do it properly.
The House of Representatives has therefore established the committee to investigate concerns surrounding the LMTI’s operations, including calls by several lawmakers for the possible de-ratification of the concession.
The decision followed a heated plenary debate triggered by three separate communications Representatives Austin Taylor, Obediah Varney, and Luther Collins, submitted regarding the quality of license plates being issued to vehicle owners.
During deliberations, lawmakers raised concerns about “substandard service delivery, and the issuance of temporary plank-made license plates.”
Lawmakers and members of the public have argued with expressed public dissatisfactions and questions about the implementation of the concession agreement.
Several lawmakers, including Representatives Alexander Poure, Ivar K. Jones, Obediah Varney, Alex S. Noah, and Moima Briggs-Mensah, expressed concerns over the impact of the LTM arrangement on employment opportunities, and the potential overlap of responsibilities with existing government institutions.
The lawmakers called for a thorough review of the concession agreement. Some of them advocated for the possible de-ratification of the law establishing the entity if the investigation reveals violations of its mandate or failure to meet contractual obligations.
As part of the inquiry, plenary heard from authorities of LTMI as well as from the Liberia National Police Deputy Inspector General for Operations.
LTMI Chief Executive Officer, acknowledged that the controversial “plank-made” license plates were being used on a temporary basis pending the availability of standard plates.
Following extensive debate, plenary voted to constitute a specialized committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the concerns raised, and provide recommendations for legislative action.
The committee has been mandated to investigate the issues surrounding the license plate concession arrangement, assess the concerns raised by lawmakers and the public, and report its findings and recommendations to plenary on June 23, 2026, at which time plenary will determine the appropriate course of action based on its findings.
The House has meanwhile, reaffirmed its commitment to ensure accountability, protect the interests of the Liberian people, and guarantee that all concession agreements, and public service arrangements operate in accordance with the law and in the best interest of the nation.
