By Amos Harris
The National Road Fund (NRF) of Liberia has strongly refuted recent media allegations that it awarded contracts in 2023 without adhering to prescribed competitive bidding processes. In a statement released on Monday, February 17, 2025, the NRF described the accusations as “baseless” and a “deliberate attempt” to tarnish the organization’s reputation.
The claims, reported by several media outlets, suggested improprieties in the NRF’s 2023 contract awards. The NRF categorically denied these allegations, labeling them “fabricated and malicious” and aimed at undermining the Fund’s integrity.
The NRF clarified that in 2023, it entered into a legally compliant contract with BECO Group for a Quality Assurance and Review Process of road infrastructure projects funded by the NRF from 2000 to 2020. This review aimed to assess past contractor performance and inform recommendations for future projects under the 2024 Annual Road Maintenance and Expenditure Program (ARMEP).
The NRF emphasized that the bidding process for the BECO Group contract was thorough, transparent, and fully compliant with regulations. BECO Group was selected as the most responsive and successful bidder, and the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) approved a thorough evaluation of all submissions. Payments were disbursed only upon successful completion of deliverables, ensuring no conflicts of interest arose.
Addressing concerns about its contracting authority, the NRF cited the National Road Fund Act of 2016, which explicitly grants the NRF the power to enter into contracts to fulfill its mandate.
The NRF also clarified that its mandate extends beyond road and bridge projects. The NRF Act empowers the Fund to finance road safety initiatives, such as lighting projects. As an example, the NRF highlighted a solar light project in Grand Cape Mount County, demonstrating its commitment to supporting activities that enhance road safety.
The NRF reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the successful delivery of infrastructure projects in Liberia. It urged the public to disregard the “false allegations,” characterizing them as a “calculated smear campaign” without factual basis.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the NRF’s dedication to serving the Liberian people and encouraging the public to rely on verified information rather than misleading claims intended to damage its reputation.
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