Monrovia – Prominent Liberian businessman George Kailondo has denied allegations that his building along Tubman Boulevard in Congo Town was spared during recent demolition exercises due to political connections or campaign support for the ruling Unity Party.
By Jaheim T. Tumu | [email protected]
Kailondo described the claims as baseless and “garbage,” stating that the decision not to demolish his multi-purpose building was based strictly on technical assessments by engineers from the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) and their Chinese counterparts overseeing the overhead bridge project.
“They [Chinese engineers] marked in front of the building. They were present during the demolition and confirmed that my structure is not in the right of way,” Kailondo told reporters. “It will not impede the construction of the overhead bridge.”
The Ministry of Public Works has been clearing structures along Tubman Boulevard to pave the way for the construction of a long-anticipated overhead bridge to ease traffic congestion. However, the sparing of Kailondo’s property sparked accusations of “selective demolition,” with critics linking the move to his perceived political ties.
Kailondo emphasized that he voluntarily approved the demolition of two of his smaller structures—a fueling station and a boutique—that were located within the project zone.
“I came six feet behind to ensure there’s enough space. I support development. I’ve contributed to infrastructure projects across many counties—not just Montserrado,” he said.
Addressing suggestions that he benefited from preferential treatment while buildings belonging to Lebanese nationals were destroyed, Kailondo pointed out that many structures owned by Lebanese businessmen across the road from his building were not touched either.
“There are buildings across the road owned by Lebanese businessmen that were untouched. Yet, some people just want to see mine gone,” he said. “I’m currently building another structure across the road—same design, same color—and I’ll be the first Liberian to build two such buildings on Tubman Boulevard.”
He criticized what he called a “culture of envy” in Liberia, saying it often hinders development and unfairly targets successful Liberians.
Kailondo also challenged media outlets that he believes are spreading misinformation about the situation without reaching out for clarification.
“Sometimes I see things—I don’t know who owns GN News. But let me be clear: I’m here. My number is public. Call me. I’m a public figure,” he said, urging journalists to engage in fact-based reporting.
As a lawyer and investor, Kailondo reiterated his commitment to the law and national development. “I must lead by example. When it comes to obeying the law, I don’t joke. I don’t compromise.”
He concluded by reflecting on broader social divisions, both in Liberia and among the diaspora, that he believes must be addressed to achieve national progress.
“Go to Ghana or Nigeria—you’ll see unity. Here, we tear each other down. Even in the U.S., when I opened a travel agency in Providence, Rhode Island, it’s the same behavior. We need to uplift one another,” he added.
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