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    Former Liberian Finance Minister Samuel Tweah Addresses Allegations Over $30 Million COVID-19 Food Support Program

    2 months ago

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     Monrovia, Liberia – Former Finance Minister Samuel Tweah has broken his silence regarding recent allegations that accuse him of mismanaging $30 million allocated for COVID-19 food support efforts.

    The accusations surfaced publicly during a podcast on the Spoon Network, where commentator Stanton Witherspoon claimed that Mr. Tweah was directly involved in mishandling the funds and suggested he might face arrest and prosecution by the Government of Liberia.

    The controversy erupted after Witherspoon’s remarks, prompting Mr. Tweah to hold a press conference today at the headquarters of the CDC in Congo Town. During the session, the former finance minister sought to clarify the nature of the funds and his role in their management, emphasizing transparency and adherence to international protocols.

    Mr. Tweah explained that the funds in question were not managed directly by the Liberian government but were instead deposited and overseen by the World Food Program (WFP), in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He stated, “The entire process of purchasing and distributing food was handled solely by the WFP. The funds were transferred immediately to the WFP’s account, which no government official, past or present, had access to.” He further emphasized that the Liberian government did not oversee the disbursement or procurement processes, pointing out that the international organizations involved maintained strict controls and transparency measures. “My role was to facilitate the process and ensure the funds reached the intended beneficiaries through the proper channels,” Tweah asserted.

    While Mr. Tweah acknowledged that the government has not formally summoned him to discuss the matter, he expressed concern over what he termed “purported lies” damaging his reputation. “It is important to set the record straight,” he said. “The allegations made by Mr. Witherspoon are unfounded and serve only to tarnish my character and undermine the integrity of the programs executed during my tenure.”

    The former minister also announced his intention to pursue legal action against Stanton Witherspoon for character assassination. “I will seek redress through the appropriate legal channels to address these false accusations,” Tweah declared. He emphasized that such defamatory statements could have serious implications, both professionally and personally.

    The controversy underscores ongoing scrutiny of Liberia’s handling of COVID-19 relief funds, with critics demanding greater transparency and accountability. The Liberian government has repeatedly emphasized its commitment to transparent management of international aid, but allegations of misappropriation continue to surface, fueling public concern.

    As investigations into the matter continue, many citizens await further clarifications from authorities and stakeholders involved in the distribution of COVID-19 aid. For now, Samuel Tweah remains resolute in defending his reputation, asserting that the funds were managed appropriately under international oversight and that accusations against him are baseless.

    The Liberian government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations or any forthcoming investigations. Meanwhile, the debate over accountability and transparency in managing pandemic relief funds persists as the nation seeks to restore public trust in its institutions.

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