MONROVIA – Former Commerce Minister Amin Modad has pushed back against speculation surrounding his abrupt resignation from President Joseph Boakai’s cabinet, asserting that his departure was a principled decision in response to persistent political interference—not a forced exit tied to controversy or corruption.
In his first public comments since stepping down earlier this month, Modad said he was not asked to resign and had no falling-out with the President. Rather, he cited overwhelming institutional distractions, particularly frequent legislative summons and resistance from entrenched interests, which he said derailed his ability to focus on reform.
“I was spending more time defending baseless allegations than focusing on reforms,” Modad said in a live radio interview. “This was not a resignation out of pressure or scandal. It was a decision based on principle and the need to allow the Ministry to function without the cloud of political noise.”
Modad served just over eight months at the helm of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, during which he attempted to introduce structural reforms, especially in the country’s fragile rice market. However, he said his initiatives met stiff resistance from powerful economic players and their political allies.
“We inherited twelve rice importers. I licensed eight new Liberian businesses to promote competition,” he said. “That didn’t sit well with certain individuals who have long dominated the space.”
He said the pressure intensified following a controversy over the purchase of a US$98,000 government vehicle, which drew criticism from lawmakers and media outlets. While the procurement was flagged for its cost, Modad maintained that it adhered to standard procedures.
“It was not an extravagant vehicle—it was durable and necessary for the work,” he said. “There was no corruption. I met with the President and the Minister of State. While they questioned the cost, there was no evidence of wrongdoing, and an internal review confirmed that.”
Modad noted that he was summoned by the Legislature two to three times per week during his tenure, a frequency he described as excessive and disruptive to the Ministry’s core operations.
He also addressed the rice price hike controversy, stating that the Ministry had temporarily approved a modest increase to avoid supply shortages. However, President Boakai reversed the decision in favor of consumer protection, a move Modad said he respected and supported.
“The President had the final say, and he acted in the interest of the people,” Modad said.
Despite the turbulence, Modad reaffirmed his commitment to the ruling Unity Party, in which he currently serves as Chair of the National Advisory Committee.
“I remain loyal to the Unity Party and the President,” he said. “There was no misunderstanding between us. I did find the party chairman’s public remarks on my resignation unnecessary, but I chose not to respond in kind.”
Modad’s resignation had fueled speculation of internal rifts and scandal, particularly amid the backlash over the vehicle purchase. But the former minister was emphatic that his exit should not be misconstrued.
“I came into government with integrity, and I left with it intact,” he said. “I did not acquire any personal property while in office. My only goal was to serve, reform, and leave a footprint of transparency.”
Discussion about this post