By Precious D. Freeman
The Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA) has signed a contract worth US$211,146,000 with JES Engineering Company.
The agreement, formalized on October 15, 2024, marks the next step in a project that has faced delays and challenges since its inception.
During the signing ceremony held at the LNBA headquarters in Monrovia, Cllr. Sylvester D. Rennie, the president of the Bar, detailed the project’s journey.
He explained that a previous contract initiated by LNBA’s former president Tiawan Gongloe in 2021 fell short due to the contractor’s inability to meet deadlines, leading to its termination.
“The initial contract was intended for completion within six months, but after I assumed office, we encountered significant issues that necessitated a reassessment of our options,” Cllr. Rennie said.
“Following the termination, we established a committee to evaluate new proposals, which culminated in selecting JES Engineering after a four-month review process.”
Cllr. Rennie emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses through this project, stating, “By choosing a Liberian company, we are reinforcing our commitment to the Liberalization policy.
We expect JES Engineering to deliver on their promises and demonstrate their capability as a responsible contractor.”
Looking ahead, Cllr. Rennie called for ongoing collaboration between the LNBA and JES Engineering to ensure the project stays on track.
He urged the company to maintain transparency and uphold high standards throughout the construction process.
In response, Joseph S. Dennis, General Manager of JES Engineering Company, expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
“We are honored to take on this project and are committed to demonstrating our reliability and efficiency”, he said.
“Our goal is not only to meet but to exceed the expectations set forth by the LNBA.”
The eight-month project will encompass the completion of the first floor of the LNBA’s headquarters, which is crucial for the association’s operations and future growth.
The headquarters, once fully completed, is expected to serve as a central hub for legal practitioners and will enhance the Bar’s ability to serve its members and the public.
As the contract is set in motion, stakeholders within the legal community have expressed optimism about the completion of the LNBA headquarters, which has long been a topic of discussion.
The project is viewed not only as a significant infrastructure development but also as a symbol of progress for the legal profession in Liberia.
With JES Engineering now at the helm, the LNBA is hopeful that the long-awaited completion of its headquarters will soon become a reality, further solidifying its role in the country’s legal landscape.
