Liberian Foreign Ministry Responds to Allegations of Interference in Japanese Projects

The Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied allegations of interference in Japanese-funded projects, defending the Secretariat’s role after accusations by Coordinator Steve Flahn Paye. The Ministry referred to a warning from the Japanese Ambassador about misrepresentations and introduced new regulations for the distribution of Japanese rice donations to ensure transparency and efficiency.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Liberia has refuted allegations of interference in Japanese government-funded initiatives. Coordination of these projects falls under the purview of a dedicated Secretariat formed after corruption was uncovered in previously managed projects, aiming for enhanced oversight and accountability. This Secretariat was created to centralize operations rather than allowing various ministries to manage funds independently.

Steve Flahn Paye, Coordinator of the Secretariat, accused Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti of engaging with the Japanese government to undermine the Secretariat’s role in executing these programs. Paye, who has overseen Japanese-funded programs since 2009, asserted that Nyanti requested the Japanese embassy to bypass the Secretariat in favor of engaging with a deputy minister instead. He claimed this request was rejected and emphasized the Secretariat’s established competence in managing these important initiatives.

In response, the Foreign Ministry, through Assistant Minister for Public Affairs Saywhar Gbaa, characterized Paye’s accusations as misleading, pointing to a warning from Japanese Ambassador Yoshimoto Hiroshi against misrepresentation of Japan’s stance on Liberia’s projects. The ambassador reiterated Japan’s neutrality regarding Liberia’s internal matters and clarified that claims about Japan potentially withdrawing from the KR Food Assistance Program were unfounded.

Additionally, the Foreign Ministry unveiled new regulations under the Japan Rice Aid Steering Committee, which includes key governmental departments. The new framework stipulates that specific companies will oversee the sale and distribution of Japanese rice donations, ensuring that transactions maintain transparency. Prices for these commodities have been established to facilitate efficient distribution while ensuring that the benefits of Japanese aid effectively reach the Liberian populace.

In conclusion, the Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has categorically denied any allegations of interference in Japanese-funded projects, asserting the integrity of the Secretariat’s role. The accusations by Paye were countered with evidence of Japan’s support for the Secretariat while reinforcing the need for clear communication and cooperation in managing these essential initiatives. The introduction of new regulations for the distribution of Japanese rice aid aims to bolster efficiency and transparency in the project’s execution.

Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com