Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has accepted the resignation of Mr. Amin Modad, former Minister of Commerce & Industry, following a controversial procurement incident involving a luxury SUV that far exceeded the government’s budgetary allocation for ministerial transportation. This decision comes amid escalating criticism and mounting accusations of mismanagement and personal enrichment at the public’s expense.
The acceptanace of the resignation was announced on Thursday, October 9, 2024, on the website of the Executive Mansion, where President Boakai noted that Modad’s decision to purchase the vehicle demonstrated “poor judgment and a lack of sensitivity to the current economic environment” in Liberia. The President has since directed that the SUV be transferred to the General Services Agency (GSA) for use in accommodating VIP guests of the government.
Modad’s resignation followed criticism over his acquisition of the luxury SUV valued at over US$90,000, which was intended for trade-related activities but funded by the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) from its Customs Capacity Building Fund. This procurement sparked allegations from Senator Nathaniel F. McGill, who accused Modad of using his office for personal gain, including the vehicle and potentially a yacht.
Further controversies surround Modad’s connections with Medtech Scientific, a container tracking and inspection company at the Freeport of Monrovia. The company has been linked to exploitative practices and was reportedly connected to Modad through accusations that the vehicle purchase was a kickback. These issues prompted the Liberian Senate to call for a review or possible termination of MedTech’s contract after investigations revealed compliance problems and undisclosed financial dealings.
In his defense, Modad, who bid farewell to his staff on Wednesday morning before stepping down, insisted that the SUV purchase was strictly for official use and approved by the LRA. During a press briefing at the Ministry of Information last week, he defended his tenure and the vehicle procurement, emphasizing that his actions were in line with his responsibilities at the Ministry of Commerce.
Modad stated his efforts in advancing Liberia’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Agreement and in streamlining the Business Registry. He also spoke about reforms aimed at addressing systemic inefficiencies and promoting economic growth, including the near completion of the Business Registry’s renovation, which integrated solar power and planned full digitization.
Deputy Minister for Administration, Madam Scholastica Tanneh Nyenkan-Nimely, has been asked act as interim minister until a permanent replacement is named. Sources suggest that Mr. Nyan Matheen, a former official of the Ministry currently residing in the U.S.A., is being considered as a possible successor for Modad.
Boakai interated his government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent resource management across all public service sectors.
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