Monrovia – A letter purportedly from the United States Embassy, presented by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) as a reference for awarding a controversial $322,441 contract, has been confirmed to be fake.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
The contract, awarded to the Elite Group of Companies for painting and structural assessment, has been the subject of intense scrutiny amid accusations of self-dealing involving senior officials at the Ministry. The issue has gained widespread attention on social media, prompting public outcry and calls for accountability.
Deputy Minister Defends Process
Deputy Minister for Administration Bill McGill Jones, one of the officials implicated, has vehemently defended the procurement process. He claims the contract was awarded transparently and in compliance with the Public Procurement and Concessions Act.
Jones further asserted that the Elite Group of Companies was selected based on recommendations from multiple reputable institutions, including the US Embassy. However,
the US embassy confirmed to FPA that the letter is fake.
The Disputed Letter
The falsified letter, dated November 1, 2024, and titled “Letter of Recommendation for Successful Performance of Contract for Renovation and Painting at the Old US Embassy Compound,” praises the Elite Group of Companies for its alleged track record of quality work. The letter reads, in part: “Elite Contractor & Global Service has an outstanding track record for quality works and an impeccable reputation for service delivery. I can assure you that if selected for contract award, Elite will definitely stand up to its reputation for successful completion.”
Despite the Embassy’s rejection of the letter, Deputy Minister Jones continues to insist on its authenticity.
FrontPage Africa has also obtained several copies of other recommendation letters used to justify the contract award; raising legitimacy concern.
Questions About Other Recommendations
In addition to the disputed US Embassy letter, FrontPage Africa has obtained several other recommendation letters used to justify the contract award. With the Embassy’s rebuttal, concerns are growing over the legitimacy of these documents as well.
The Embassy’s denial has amplified calls for a comprehensive investigation into the contract-awarding process at the MFDP. Critics argue that if the letter is indeed fabricated, it raises serious concerns about integrity and governance within the Ministry.
