Monrovia – The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a new Ministry of Justice Complex on Capitol Hill, adjacent to the Executive Mansion, has drawn sharp criticism from Margibi County Senator Nathaniel McGill, who has raised concerns over transparency and accountability surrounding the project.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh (0886729972)[email protected]
Senator McGill, in a Facebook post hours after the ceremony, welcomed the initiative but questioned the lack of publicly available information regarding the project’s funding, approval process, and implementation.
Meanwhile, speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, January 29, 2026, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai defended the construction of public buildings, describing them as critical to national stability, institutional dignity, and record preservation.
“Do you imagine if you have to move from one building to another, what you will lose in terms of records? Public buildings are permanent buildings; they are durable buildings,” President Boakai said. “Go to some countries—some public buildings are over 100 years old.”
The President acknowledged that constructing public buildings may be costly but emphasized their long-term value.
“Had we built public buildings for years, at this time they would still be in use. Today, we are determined to build public buildings. They may be more expensive, but they are more important,” he added.
“We have to pay attention to things that bring dignity to our country. It is not the clothes and other things; public buildings matter. This place will be ideal.”
President Boakai further noted that the Justice Ministry Complex would provide a structured environment for offices, improve record management, and enhance convenience for officials.
“Today, we are building a structure that will represent our country—where offices will be properly organized, records will be kept, and the minister will find convenience,” he stated.
However, Senator McGill said several critical questions remain unanswered.
“Today, we witnessed the groundbreaking of the Ministry of Justice Complex by the President. While we welcome this important initiative, we are, however, concerned about the following,” McGill wrote.
He questioned whether the project is funded by the Government of Liberia or through donor support and whether the necessary approvals have been secured.
“Who is funding the project? If it is funded by the Government, when was the US$20 million approved, and has a contractor been approved? Where is the design? Or is the groundbreaking being conducted before the approval of the building budget and design?” he asked.
The Senator also questioned whether the project is being implemented through a grant or donor funding that does not require legislative approval.
According to Senator McGill, his concerns stem from past controversial projects, including the procurement of 285 yellow machines and the US$10 million Foya project, which he said lacked sufficient transparency.
He disclosed that he plans to seek legislative scrutiny of the project.
“Therefore, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, I will place a letter on the floor demanding the appearance of the Minister of Justice before the Senate to provide a detailed explanation of this project,” McGill said.
“Transparency and accountability must not be compromised.”
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