“Grossly Unfounded” – National Road Fund Refutes Corruption Allegations

Monrovia, Liberia – February 17, 2025 – The National Road Fund (NRF) of Liberia has strongly refuted recent allegations of corruption and misinformation circulating in media outlets and public discussions. The NRF described these claims—including accusations that it awarded contracts in 2023 without following the competitive bidding process—as baseless, fabricated, and a deliberate attempt to tarnish its reputation.

Contracting Process Followed All Legal Procedures

According to a release, in 2023, the NRF awarded a contract to BLECO Group to conduct a Quality Assurance and Review Process on all road infrastructure projects funded by the NRF from fiscal years 2020 to 2022. This review aimed to provide real-time analytical insights into the performance of road contractors, ensuring better planning and decision-making for the 2024 Annual Road Maintenance and Expenditure Program (ARMEP).

In the release issued through the office of Emmett Payopa Coker, Director, Media Relations, the NRF clarified that the procurement process was open, transparent, and strictly adhered to all legal and regulatory requirements. Following a rigorous evaluation, BLECO Group emerged as the most responsive and successful bidder. The contract was subsequently approved by the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC), which granted a “No Objection” after a thorough review of all submissions.

In addition, the NRF emphasized that all payments under this contract were performance-based and strictly tied to agreed deliverables. BLECO Group fully met its contractual obligations before any payments were made, ensuring compliance with procurement and accountability standards.

NRF Act Grants Full Authority for Contracting and Project Oversight

The NRF reaffirmed that it operates under the National Road Fund Act of 2016, which legally empowers it to enter into contracts that align with its mandate. Any claims suggesting otherwise are false and misleading.

Specifically, Chapter 4, Section 4.4 of the NRF Act grants the National Road Fund Manager the authority to review the utilization of funds by any roads authority to ensure proper allocation and spending and enter into contracts on behalf of the NRF for road-related projects and oversight activities.

Additionally, the NRF is governed by an Inter-Ministerial Steering Committee (IMSC), which provides leadership and oversight on financial allocations and project approvals. The committee fully reviewed and approved the Quality Assurance contract as part of the NRF’s 2023 budget.

Solar Lighting Project Falls Within NRF’s Mandate

Addressing concerns over NRF’s funding of a solar streetlight project in Grand Cape Mount County, the NRF clarified that such initiatives fall well within its legal mandate.

Contrary to claims that NRF funds can only be used for road and bridge construction, the NRF Act explicitly permits financing for road safety measures, including lighting projects. Chapter 1, Section 1.2 of the NRF Act outlines that the fund may be used for planning, programming, and management activities directly related to road infrastructure.

Furthermore, Chapter 6, Section 6.2(h) states that NRF funds may cover “other items of administrative expenditure that are directly related to road maintenance activities.” Streetlights enhance road safety, preventing accidents and ensuring better visibility for motorists and pedestrians.

Call to Reject Misinformation

The NRF urged the public to be cautious of individuals deliberately spreading falsehoods to create the illusion of corruption. The allegations being circulated lack any factual basis and do not provide evidence of wrongdoing. Instead, they appear to be part of a coordinated smear campaign aimed at discrediting the institution’s work.

The National Road Fund of Liberia remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management. The institution will continue to ensure that Liberia’s road infrastructure projects are executed with efficiency and integrity.