Monrovia – Amin Modad, the embattled Minister of Commerce, has resigned, becoming the first cabinet member of the Boakai-Koung administration to do so. His resignation follows President Boakai’s refusal to meet with him upon returning from the United Nations General Assembly. Sources indicate that the President was displeased with Modad over the controversy surrounding the purchase of a luxury vehicle.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
Although both Modad and the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs have not confirmed reports of the President’s snub, it is said that Modad felt disrespected and humiliated by the President’s actions and decided to step down.
In his resignation letter, Modad stated that he was resigning to protect both his integrity and that of the administration. He wrote: “Over the last few days there has been public outcry over the purchase of a vehicle for over 45,000.00. Though I have provided all documentations and facts that equivocally demonstrate that there was no malfeasance, l am deeply concerned about the impact on my integrity and the administration; this continues to be a distraction from the real national issues and your agenda.”
Modad continued: “I therefore wish to tender my resignation as Minister of Commerce & Industry, a position that I ably served with integrity and passion for the past nine months. My family and I remain thankful to you for the opportunity to serve our people. I wish you and the administration the best as we look forward to a better Liberia.”
Modad’s Rise and Fall
A successful businessman, Modad owns several enterprises, including the Liberian-owned holding company Bella Casa Hotel, Atlantic Foods Company, and Atlantic Construction & Energy. According to his LinkedIn profile, his business interests span hospitality, food and beverage production, construction, energy, and trade.
In September 2020, Modad was elected chairman of the Unity Party (then in opposition), defeating veteran politician Sen. Conmany Wesseh and others. He cited his business background as a key qualification for the role. However, in 2022, he lost the chairmanship to Rev. Luther Tarpeh but remained an active member of the party. After the Unity Party’s election victory, Modad was appointed Minister of Commerce.
The Rice Controversy
Just four months into the Boakai administration, Modad sparked controversy when he announced that the government had agreed to increase the price of a 25kg bag of rice from US$16 to US$18.50, under pressure from rice importers. However, the Executive Mansion swiftly reversed the decision, stating on its Facebook page that President Boakai had met with rice importers and decided that there would be no price increase. It was reported that the President was upset with Modad for making such a decision without his approval.
The Luxury Car Scandal
Modad’s troubles deepened when it was revealed that he had approved the purchase of a luxury SUV for official use, funded by the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) through its Customs Capacity Building Fund, collected from MedTech, a container tracking and inspection company at the Freeport of Monrovia. Activist Martin Kollie, a former supporter of the Unity Party, accused Modad of using US$150,000 from the LRA to purchase the SUV, a claim that led to widespread criticism.
Margibi County Senator Nathaniel F. McGill accused Modad of acquiring personal luxuries, including the SUV and potentially a yacht, during his time in office. McGill also called for an investigation into Modad’s activities, alleging that he failed to repay a US$400,000 debt while serving on the board of First International Bank (now SIB), contributing to the bank’s collapse.
In response, Modad denied the allegations and pointed to McGill’s own controversial history, including his placement on a U.S. sanctions list for alleged corruption and human rights violations. The Liberia Revenue Authority clarified that it had not purchased a vehicle worth US$150,000 for Modad but had approved US$96,000 from the Customs Capacity Building Fund to support trade-related activities.
Despite these clarifications, public pressure continued to mount, and Modad grew frustrated, accusing his Unity Party colleagues of failing to defend him. A leaked chat from a senior Unity Party executive forum revealed Modad’s grievances, but he received little sympathy. The party Chairman, Tarpeh also stated that the party will not back any officials accused of corruption, rather it will encourage them to clear their names.
What’s Next?
There have been calls for Modad and accomplices to face investigation, and if found guilty to restitute any misapplied funds. Critics are also demanding the resignation of LRA Commissioner General Dorbor Jallah, arguing that he should not be spared from scrutiny, as he admitted to disbursing the funds for the SUV’s purchase.
Public sentiment has been vocal. One FrontPage Africa reader, Christopher Nyei, commented: “Thanks to the President his Excellency Joseph Nyumah Boakai for reacting on Commerce Minister Amin Modad misappropriation of public funds.”
Nyei continued: “This step discharged good governance system, for the betterment of this country, & to the President through comprehensive investigation if conducted, all of those who are associated with Modad corrupt act should follows suit, thanks.”
Emmanuel Weagba, another follower added: “Resignation is no remedy to the Commerce Minister Corruption crisis! This should not be an escape route for the President either! If the Minister paid all outstanding debts to banks owed within the short time as Commerce Minister, he should be investigated and thereafter prosecuted!”
Continuing, he said: “Resignation and then leave to enjoy stolen wealth is business as usual Mr. President!! If you are taking Weah officials to court for corruption, do likewise to your own officials! One yardstick to deal with corruption! WE ARE WATCHING PRESIDENT BOAKAI!”
In addition to Modad’s resignation, there have been growing calls for President Boakai to dismiss Public Works Minister Roland Giddings over allegations of mismanagement involving more than US$22 million intended for road maintenance. Reports indicate that several major roads across Liberia remain impassable despite the allocated funds.