By Bill W. Cooper
Public Works Minister, Ruth Coker-Collins, has for the first time, openly clarified her position regarding the road project in the country, denying any allegation of perjury.
Minister Collins, speaking via telephone on Monday, September 4, 2023 on ELBC radio, firmly asserted that she never lied under oath, concerning the progress and implementation of the road project across the country, mainly the southern region.
She further denied misleading the public, asserting her commitment to transparency and accountability in her role as Minister of the Ministry, stating, “I stand by my testimony and maintain that I did not provide any false information under oath.”
The controversy surrounding the road project first erupted when some senators of the Liberian Senate accused Minister Collins of providing inaccurate information during a hearing.
They alleged that Coker-Collins, who was placed under oath to give update about ongoing road projects across the country, had misrepresented the progress made on key road infrastructure projects that were intended to improve transportation and connectivity throughout the country.
The road project was initiated with the aim of enhancing transportation networks, but the delay and funding issues have plagued the project, fueling public discontent and conjecture, especially during this rainy season.
Despite the claims from Senators, Minister Collins defended her assertion, emphasizing that she and her team at the Ministry have taken significant steps to address challenges with the country’s road project.
She further pointed out that delays and unexpected obstacles about the project are the result of the contractors’ negligence and inability to adequately and effectively carry on the project, despite being paid by government.
To support her claims, the Public Works Minister also provided a comprehensive overview of ongoing road projects, outlining key milestones achieved and challenges encountered thus far.
She acknowledged that certain targets had not been met due to funding gaps and logistical hurdles, and assured the public that her team was tirelessly working to revitalize the project and accelerate progress, once the dry season comes.
Meanwhile, responding directly to the allegations of perjury, Minister Collins stressed that she has always upheld her duty to provide accurate and honest information during parliamentary hearings.
She at the same time called on the Senators not to politicize the country’s road construction, saying, “It’s frustrating when our Senators, who happen to be politicians, are trying to mix engineering with politics.”
“It is totally wrong and I hope that they can desist and support our efforts through budgetary support to speedily complete more of the ongoing road projects for the betterment of our citizens and country,” the Minister added.
