Ex-Finance Minister Demand Accountability from WFP, Denies Misuse of Funds

• Former Minister Samuel D. Tweah calls on the Liberian government to investigate the World Food Programme instead of him.
• Tweah denied all mismanagement allegations regarding the COVID-19 stimulus fund.
• He attributes his criticism to misinformation spread by media personality Stanton Witherspoon.
• Tweah insists the funds were managed solely by the WFP and not the government.
• Legal action against Witherspoon is underway for defamation over false claims.
• Tweah emphasizes the need for honest political dialogue and accountability.

Investigation Should Focus on WFP, Not Tweah

Former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel D. Tweah is striking back at the Liberian government, urging them to shift their focus from him to the World Food Programme (WFP) amidst allegations of mismanaging the US$30 million COVID-19 funds. In a press conference held in Congo Town, Tweah firmly rejected claims that he mishandled the stimulus funds allocated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank during the pandemic. He described these accusations as untrue, politically charged, and part of a larger scheme aimed at tarnishing his public image.

Funds Were Directly Managed by WFP

The former minister laid the blame for the management of the funds squarely on the WFP, stating that they were the ones accountable for the COVID-19 Household Food Support Program (COHFSP). According to Tweah, the Liberian government secured US$25 million from the IMF specifically for the COHFSP in 2020. Furthermore, the WFP was entrusted with spending all funds directly, which significantly insulated the government from allegations of misappropriation. “I was glad about the arrangement because it protected the integrity of Liberian government institutions,” Tweah mentioned during his address, urging the government to examine the WFP’s role first.

Tweah Takes Legal Action Against Allegations

In light of ongoing rumors and accusations, Tweah has taken legal steps against Stanton Witherspoon, a media figure he alleges is misleading the public about his connection to the funds. His statement formed part of broader concerns that misinformation had driven many in the country to believe that his arrest was imminent over this matter. “I have instructed my legal team to pursue defamation charges against Witherspoon for spreading damaging untruths that manipulate public sentiment,” he stated. Tweah emphasized the necessity for honesty in political discourse, urging for a united stand against dishonesty in governance.

In summary, Samuel D. Tweah has vehemently denied any involvement in the misuse of COVID-19 funds, asserting that the World Food Programme should bear the responsibility for the financial management. He has openly criticized misinformation campaigns aimed at tarnishing his reputation, particularly those orchestrated by media figures like Stanton Witherspoon. Moving forward, Tweah is prepared to defend himself through legal means and calls for a more truthful political narrative in Liberia.